The Civil Society Action Coalition on Education for All (CSACEFA) has called for the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted schoolchildren and teachers across Nigeria.
The coalition also urged governments at all levels to suspend activities marking the June 12 Democracy Day celebration if the victims are not rescued before the national event.
Speaking at a news briefing in Abuja on Monday, CSACEFA National Moderator, Peculiar Caleb, said it would be inappropriate for the country to celebrate democracy while children, teachers and other citizens remain in captivity.
According to her, June 12 should serve as a day of sober reflection if those abducted are not released before the celebration.
Caleb was reacting to recent abductions involving schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno states, describing attacks on schools as a growing threat to education and national development.
“Schools have increasingly become targets of violence, abductions and insecurity, with children, teachers and families bearing the consequences,” she said.
She stressed that schools should remain safe spaces for learning and development rather than centres of fear and violence.
Caleb warned that school kidnappings often lead to trauma, learning disruptions, school closures, teacher absenteeism and the withdrawal of children from education.
She added that the trend could worsen Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis, particularly among girls and vulnerable learners.
The coalition also expressed concern that continued attacks on schools could affect Nigeria’s international reputation as it prepares to co-host the 2026 Global Partnership for Education (GPE) Replenishment Campaign with Italy.
CSACEFA called on governments to move beyond reactive measures and implement stronger strategies to protect schools, learners and education workers.
Also speaking, CSACEFA Policy Adviser, Odinakachi Ahanonu, noted that despite Nigeria’s endorsement of the Safe Schools Declaration and adoption of the National Policy on Safety, Security and Violence-Free Schools, children and teachers continue to face threats in educational institutions.
She called for the immediate rescue of all abducted victims, improved school security, regular updates on rescue efforts and psychosocial support for affected families and communities.
Ahanonu also urged authorities to investigate and prosecute those responsible for attacks on schools, including sponsors and collaborators.
Similarly, CSACEFA Programme Manager, Demian Mary-Adeleke, said the challenge lies not in the absence of policies but in poor implementation.
He called for increased funding for school safety initiatives, including emergency preparedness, early warning systems, community protection mechanisms and safe transportation for learners.
Mary-Adeleke further stressed the need for stronger collaboration among governments, security agencies, traditional institutions and civil society groups to ensure schools remain safe for children across the country.
Source: NAN News
Edited by: Deborah Yakub
