ABUJA— The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) issued a strong condemnation Tuesday following the reported attack on a Government Girls' School in the Maga community of Kebbi State, which led to the death of the school's vice-principal and the abduction of an estimated 25 students.
The attack, which occurred in the North-West region of Nigeria, was labeled by UNICEF as a "stark reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools, and the personnel they rely on to learn safely."
In a statement made available to journalists by UNICEF Nigeria's Communications Specialist, Susan Akila, the agency offered condolences to the families of those killed and wished for the swift release of the kidnapped children.
UNICEF stressed that under international law, students, educational facilities, and their staff must be protected from any form of assault.
The organization also called for those responsible for the violence to be held accountable in accordance with national and international standards.
The statement reminded Nigerian authorities to continue implementing the Safe Schools Declaration, which the government endorsed in 2015.
This declaration outlines specific steps to safeguard schools during conflict and ensure students maintain safe access to education.
UNICEF concluded by stating it is collaborating with government partners, civil society organizations, and communities to reinforce child protection systems and promote safe learning environments nationwide to prevent future attacks.
"No child should be put at risk while pursuing an education," the statement read.
