The Northern Governors’ Forum has called for swift and decisive action to rescue abducted children and prevent similar incidents. Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, who also chairs the forum, made the statement through his media aide, Ismaila Uba‑Misilli, on Friday in Gombe. He described the abduction as “disturbing and unacceptable,” emphasizing that schools must remain safe and secure environments for learning.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of children in northern Nigeria, where efforts are underway to increase school enrollment and reduce the number of out‑of‑school children. Governor Yahaya stressed that the region cannot afford further setbacks in its push to promote education, adding, “Schools must remain sanctuaries of learning and growth, not theatres of fear, violence or terror.” The forum is worried about the rising trend of attacks on schools, which undermines government efforts in the north to create safe and conducive learning environments.
Governor Yahaya assured that the governors will work closely with security agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen intelligence gathering, enhance community vigilance, and reinforce school protection. He expressed sympathy to the parents of the abducted pupils, the school authorities, and the government of Niger State, commended the ongoing search‑and‑rescue operations, and urged security agencies to intensify their efforts with utmost urgency. He also appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any information that may aid the rescue.
The abduction of children from schools is a recurring issue in northern Nigeria, with significant implications for the region’s educational system and the well‑being of its children. The Northern Governors’ Forum’s call for action highlights the need for a coordinated response to ensure the safety and security of schools. As search‑and‑rescue efforts continue, the forum’s emphasis on strengthening security measures and promoting cooperation among governments, security agencies, and communities is crucial for preventing similar incidents and fostering a safe learning environment.
Comments are closed for this story.