By Ahmed Rufa’i
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has condemned the deadly attack on Government Girls’ School, Maga, in Kebbi State, urging authorities to urgently strengthen the safety of children, schools, and education workers across Nigeria.
In a statement issued to National Update by UNICEF Nigeria’s Communication Specialist, Sussan Akila, the agency described the incident—which claimed the life of the school’s vice-principal and resulted in the reported abduction of 25 students—as “deeply tragic” and unacceptable.
“UNICEF strongly condemns the reported attack on a Government Girls School in the Maga community of Kebbi State, which resulted in the death of the school’s vice-principal and the reported abduction of 25 students,” the statement read.
The organisation called for the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted girls, stressing the urgent need to safeguard learning spaces amid rising insecurity.
“This tragic incident is yet another stark reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools, and the personnel they rely upon to learn safely,” Akila said. “We stand with the affected community during this difficult time. Our heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families, and we wish a full recovery to those injured.”
UNICEF reiterated that students, schools, and education workers are protected under international law and insisted that those responsible for attacks on educational facilities must be held accountable.
Akila also noted that Nigeria endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration in 2015—an international commitment aimed at preserving the civilian character of schools and ensuring safe access to education even in conflict zones.
According to the agency, UNICEF continues to collaborate with government institutions, civil society organisations, and community actors to strengthen child protection systems and promote safe, inclusive learning environments nationwide.
“These systems and environments must be reinforced to prevent future tragedies,” the statement added.
UNICEF urged all stakeholders to intensify efforts toward fully implementing the Safe Schools Declaration, stressing that no child should ever be put at risk while seeking an education.