UNICEF Condemns Kidnapping of School Children and Teachers in Kaduna, Offers Psychological Support

UNICEF Condemns Abduction of School Children and Teachers in Kaduna, Offers Support

UNICEF has expressed strong condemnation for the recent abduction of more than 280 students and teachers from Government Secondary School and LEA Primary School in Kuriga, Kaduna State, by bandits. The organization is working closely with local authorities to provide support to affected families, particularly through psychological assistance.

Reports from PUNCH Healthwise state that the bandits attacked the area on Thursday, opening fire before abducting the pupils and teachers from the schools. This distressing incident is part of a concerning trend of attacks on educational institutions across Nigeria, especially in the northwest region, where armed groups have been escalating their violence and kidnappings.

Cristian Munduate, the UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, expressed deep sadness and concern over these events. In a statement, Munduate emphasized the critical need for immediate action from all levels of government and society to address the crisis. Schools, she highlighted, should be safe spaces for learning and growth, not scenes of fear and violence.

“This latest abduction, like previous ones, is highly condemnable and reflects a disturbing pattern of assaults on educational institutions in Nigeria,” said Munduate. She pointed out that just a day before this incident, the UN Resident Coordinator spoke about the abductions of women, girls, and boys by a non-state armed group in Borno state.

UNICEF is calling for urgent measures to ensure the safe return of the abducted children and staff. The organization urges authorities to implement comprehensive strategies to secure schools across Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of guaranteeing the safety and security of students and educators.

Munduate stressed the fundamental right to education, stating that it must be protected against any form of violence or intimidation. “Our thoughts are with the families of the abducted students and staff, and we stand with them during this challenging time,” she added.

UNICEF is actively collaborating with local officials to provide assistance, particularly through psychological support services, to the affected parents and families. The organization remains dedicated to working with government entities, local communities, and partners to address the root causes of violence against children and to protect educational environments from threats and violence.

“Every child deserves to grow up in a peaceful environment, free from the shadows of threats and insecurity,” said Munduate. “Unfortunately, we are witnessing a significant decline in community safety, with children bearing the brunt of this worsening security situation.”