UN Sounds Red Alert Over School Abductions, Calls for Immediate Rescue of Children.
The United Nations has called for the immediate and safe release of pupils and teachers abducted during recent attacks on schools in Oyo and Borno states. The global body warned that the incidents threaten children’s safety, well-being and right to education.
The appeal came from the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, following a meeting with officials of the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre in Abuja. During the meeting, participants reviewed the security challenges facing schools and expressed solidarity with affected families and communities.
In Oyo State, gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15. The attackers abducted more than 40 pupils and seven teachers. They also killed two teachers during the raid.
A similar incident occurred in Mussa community, Borno State. There, armed men kidnapped more than 40 children from three schools. Most of the affected persons were between two and five years old.
Fall described the attacks as deeply disturbing. He stressed that schools should remain safe places where children can learn and grow without fear. According to him, children must never become targets of violence.
Child protection experts say school abductions expose children to serious risks. Apart from physical harm, affected persons may suffer emotional trauma, anxiety and long-term psychological effects. Such experiences can also disrupt their education and development.
Meanwhile, many parents in Borno say they remain distressed after weeks without information about their children’s whereabouts. Some families have reportedly developed health problems linked to the uncertainty and emotional strain.
The UN urged authorities to intensify rescue efforts and hold the perpetrators accountable. It also called for stronger school safety measures to protect children and prevent future attacks.
As efforts to secure the release of the affected persons continue, stakeholders insist that every child deserves protection, security and a safe environment in which to learn and thrive.
