BY: AISHA AHMED, DUTSE
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has called for immediate action to ensure the safe return of the abducted children and staff of Kaduna state.
This was contained in statement signed by UNICEF’s Country Representative in Nigeria, Christian Munduate and made available to newsmen.
The statement called on authorities to implement comprehensive measures to secure schools across Nigeria.
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“It is imperative that the safety and security of students and educators are guaranteed, allowing schools to fulfill their role as safe havens for learning and development.” It emphasized.
The statement highlighted that the UNICEF Country Representativea, expressed deep concern over the recent abduction of the students.
“I am deeply saddened and concerned by the reports of yet another abduction of students in Kaduna State.
“The alarming frequency of such incidents across the country, signals a crisis that requires immediate and determined action from all levels of government and society.
“Schools are supposed to be sanctuaries of learning and growth, not sites of fear and violence.
“This latest abduction, as any previously, is highly condemnable and part of a worrying trend of attacks on educational institutions in Nigeria, particularly in the northwest.
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It explained that just a day prior to the incident, the UN Resident Coordinator spoke about the abductions of large numbers of women, girls and boys by members of a non-state armed group in Borno state.
“Our hearts go out to the families of the abducted students and staff and we stand with them in this harrowing time.
The right to education is fundamental and must be protected against any form of violence or intimidation. The children of Nigeria deserve to learn in peace.”
“UNICEF is coordinating with local officials and providing assistance to the affected parents and families through psychological support services.” It said.
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The UN children’s agency said, its dedicated to collaborating with government entities, local communities, and various partners to tackle the fundamental issues leading to violence against children and to safeguard educational environments from threats and violence.
“Every child deserves to grow up in an environment of peace, away from the looming shadows of threats and insecurity.
Unfortunately, we are currently facing a significant deterioration in community safety, with children disproportionately suffering the consequences of this decline in security.” The report said.