"Group Denounces Abductions of Kebbi, Niger Students and Calls for Urgent Rescue Action"

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Condemnation of Abduction
3. Call to Action
4. Support for Affected Communities
5. Commitment to Education

The Inter-agency Network for Education in Emergencies (INEE), a global network of practitioners and experts dedicated to promoting the right to quality education for individuals impacted by crises and emergencies, has firmly condemned the recent abduction of hundreds of students in Kebbi and Niger states. The organization characterized this act as an assault on civilization and a violation of children's right to education.

INEE has also urged security agencies to intensify rescue efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted students and teachers.

This appeal was made in a statement released by its Country Focal Person for Nigeria, Mrs. Ifedimma Nwigwe, over the weekend, who described the situation as alarming.

“We are profoundly disturbed by these attacks on schools — institutions that should serve as safe havens for learning — and we express our solidarity with the families, teachers, and communities affected.

“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted students and staff. Targeting learners and educators constitutes a serious violation of children's rights, undermines the right to education, and causes enduring psychological and social damage to survivors and communities.

“Therefore, INEE calls on security agencies to enhance efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted individuals and to conduct thorough investigations into these incidents.

“We urge federal, state, and local authorities to reinforce measures that protect schools and ensure the continuity of education during and after emergencies. This includes providing rapid psychosocial support, trauma-informed care, and creating safe learning environments for affected children.

“We encourage communities, faith and traditional leaders, and civil society to stay engaged in peaceful initiatives to ensure the safety of students and staff while fostering environments that oppose violence.

“INEE equally implores all parties involved in conflicts to honor the civilian nature of schools, in accordance with international humanitarian principles and Nigeria’s obligations to safeguard children in conflict situations,” the statement concluded.

It further emphasized that “these attacks underscore the urgent necessity for coordinated, rights-based actions to protect education in emergencies,” adding that “INEE is prepared to assist partners in providing lifesaving education, child protection, and psychosocial services, as well as enhancing preparedness and response measures that ensure children can learn safely.”