The Inter-agency Network for Education in Emergencies (INEE), a worldwide coalition of professionals and specialists advocating for the right to quality education for those impacted by crises, has vehemently denounced the recent kidnapping of numerous students in Kebbi and Niger states, labeling it an assault on civilization and the right of children to receive an education.
INEE has also urged security forces to ramp up their rescue efforts to guarantee the safe return of the kidnapped students and teachers.
This appeal was made in a statement released by Mrs. Ifedimma Nwigwe, the Country Focal Person for Nigeria, over the weekend, who characterized the situation as alarming.
“We are profoundly disturbed by these assaults on educational institutions — places that should serve as safe havens for learning — and we stand in solidarity with the families, educators, and communities affected.
“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of all students and staff who have been abducted. Targeting learners and educators is a serious infringement on children’s rights, undermines the right to education, and causes enduring psychological and social damage to survivors and their communities.
“INEE, therefore, calls on security agencies to enhance their efforts to ensure the safe return of those abducted and to conduct a thorough investigation into these events.
“We urge federal, state, and local authorities to bolster measures that safeguard schools and ensure the continuity of education during and after emergencies, which includes providing rapid psychosocial support, trauma-informed care, and secure learning environments for affected children.
“We encourage communities, faith and traditional leaders, and civil society to stay actively involved in peaceful initiatives to ensure the safety of students and staff and to cultivate environments that reject violence.
“INEE also calls on all parties involved to cooperate in these efforts.