Note to Correspondents: Reported abduction of children and teachers from a secondary school in Niger State, Nigeria

DAKAR/ABUJA, 22 November 2025 – Scores of children and teachers were reportedly abducted from a secondary school in Niger State, Nigeria, in the early hours of Friday, just days after a separate attack in Kebbi State on Monday led to the abduction of 25 girls from a boarding school.

“Children should never be the target of violence, and schools must be safe places where girls and boys can learn without fear,” said UNICEF Regional Director for West and Central Africa Gilles Fagninou. “The abduction of students and their teachers is a brutal and grave violation of children’s rights and a shocking assault on their safety and education.” 

“We urge all actors to ensure the immediate and safe release of every abducted child and educator,” said Fagninou. “Nigeria’s children need protection. Communities must be able to send their children to school knowing they will return home safely.” 

In 2015, the Nigerian government endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, which outlines concrete steps to safeguard the civilian nature of schools and universities to ensure safe access of students to education during conflict. UNICEF calls on all relevant stakeholders to continue efforts to fully implement the Safe Schools Declaration in Nigeria. 

UNICEF is working with government partners, civil society and communities to strengthen child protection systems and promote safe and inclusive learning environments across the country. Strengthening these systems and environments is essential to prevent future violations and better protect children.