A coalition of civil society organizations in Kebbi State has denounced the recent abduction of schoolgirls, describing it as a deliberate attempt to undermine education in the region. The attack on Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga on November 17 resulted in the kidnapping of 25 students, directly threatening the safety and future of children.
At a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi, the coalition’s chairman, Ibrahim Ngaski, emphasized that education is a fundamental right and no child should live in fear while pursuing their dreams. He called on authorities to intensify search and rescue operations and improve security around schools and communities. Ngaski also suggested relocating boarding schools in remote or vulnerable areas and engaging community leaders to foster dialogue, prevention, and resilience-building initiatives.
The coalition chairman recommended immediate psychological support for affected families and emphasized the need for full implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative. Kebbi State has received grants under the World Bank’s AGILE Project, which aims to support education initiatives. Ngaski urged cooperation with neighboring states, including Sokoto, Zamfara, and Niger, for intelligence sharing and protection against attacks.
The abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State is not an isolated incident, as Nigeria has experienced a series of similar attacks in recent years. The Nigerian government has faced criticism for its handling of these incidents, and civil society organizations have been advocating for improved security measures to protect schools and students.
The coalition’s call for action comes as concerns about the safety of students in Nigeria continue to grow. The United Nations has estimated that over 1,000 schools have been closed in Nigeria due to insecurity, affecting the education of thousands of children. The Nigerian government has pledged to address the issue, but more needs to be done to ensure that students can attend school without fear of abduction or violence.
In the meantime, the coalition is urging the media, parents, and teachers to remain vigilant and support security agencies in their efforts to protect schools and students. By working together, it is possible to create a safer and more secure environment for children to learn and grow. The incident highlights the need for continued efforts to prioritize the safety and education of children in Nigeria and to address the root causes of these attacks.
