UNICEF condemns Kebbi school attack, demands immediate release of abducted students

By James Ike

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has condemned the attack on Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, which left the school’s Vice-Principal dead and at least 25 students reportedly abducted.

Gunmen were said to have invaded the school in the early hours of Monday, killing the Vice-Principal, Hassan Makuku, and injuring a security guard, Ali Shehu, who sustained gunshot wounds.

In a statement issued by Sussan Akila, Communication Specialist at UNICEF Nigeria, the global body described the incident as “a tragic reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools, and the personnel they rely on to learn safely.”

“We stand with the affected community at this difficult time. Our heartfelt condolences go to those who have lost their loved ones, and we wish a full recovery for those injured,” the statement read.

UNICEF called for the immediate release of the abducted students and urged authorities to ensure that those behind the attack are brought to justice in line with national and international laws.

“Students, education facilities and their personnel should be protected under international law from any form of attack. Those responsible for this incident must be held to account,” it added.

The organisation recalled that Nigeria, in 2015, endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, which outlines measures to safeguard schools and ensure uninterrupted access to education, especially in conflict-prone areas.

UNICEF urged all stakeholders to intensify efforts toward implementing the declaration and strengthening child protection systems to prevent future tragedies.

“UNICEF is working with government partners, civil society and communities to promote safe and inclusive learning environments across the country. These systems must be reinforced. No child should be put at risk while pursuing an education,” the agency stated.