The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) has warned that the frequent closure of schools across Nigeria is not a sustainable response to the growing security threats affecting many states.

In a statement signed by the Country Director, Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu on Monday, the organisation said shutting down schools repeatedly puts millions of children at risk of long-term learning problems and psychological stress.

“While the safety of students is paramount and remains a moral and constitutional obligation, shutting down schools whether temporarily or repeatedly cannot become a long-term solution.

“Education is a fundamental human right under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Article 26, and any prolonged interruption exposes millions of children to psychological distress, learning gaps, and long-term socioeconomic disadvantages.”

Adamu noted that the rising incidents of attacks and threats around schools reveal deeper structural security problems that must be addressed urgently.

He urged both federal and state governments to adopt stronger and proactive measures that protect schools without disrupting learning.

The IHRC-RFT suggested several steps, including boosting community intelligence gathering, deploying trained school safety marshals, and improving school infrastructure with fencing, access control and surveillance systems.

The organisation also stressed the need to tackle the root causes of insecurity.

“Banditry and terrorism grow where there is poverty and weak governance. A real socioeconomic plan is needed,” the statement added.

Adamu further called for coordinated regional security operations, saying criminals take advantage of weak borders between states.

He warned that Nigeria cannot afford a future where children are afraid to attend school.

“Nigeria cannot afford a future where children live in fear and parents lose confidence in the education system. We call on all stakeholders government, security agencies, civil society, traditional leaders, and citizens to join hands in safeguarding our schools and ensuring learning continues without interruption.

“Education must never be allowed to collapse under the weight of insecurity,” he added.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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