The United Nations has called for urgent action to secure the release of students and teachers abducted by armed groups in Nigeria, stressing that schools must remain safe spaces for learning and development.
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Malick Fall, made the appeal in Abuja during a meeting with the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre led by its Commandant, Samuel Umanah.
He expressed concern over the continued captivity of the victims and condemned the violence that led to the deaths of two teachers during the attacks in Oyo and Borno States.
Fall said the incidents highlight growing threats to children, educators, and learning environments, urging authorities to prioritise the protection of education spaces. He called for full implementation of the Minimum Standards for Safe Schools, stronger emergency response systems, and improved data-driven security strategies.
The UN official also urged intensified efforts to ensure the safe release of all abducted students and teachers, as well as accountability for those responsible for the attacks.
