By Shehu Muhammad Shehu
The Save the Child Initiative (STCI) Nigeria has condemned the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Kwara states, describing the incidents as a serious violation of children’s rights and a direct attack on the nation’s future.
In a statement issued on Monday, 8 June 2026, and signed by the Head of Protection, Save the Child Initiative Nigeria, Mallam Rabiu Bello Gandi, and the Sokoto State Coordinator of NACTAL Nigeria, Mr Rufus Yagkong, STCI expressed deep concern over the growing insecurity around educational institutions across the country.
The organisation said the recent incidents underscore the vulnerability of schools despite ongoing efforts under the Safe Schools Initiative aimed at protecting learning environments.
According to the statement, schools should remain safe spaces for learning, growth, and development, but persistent cases of abduction have created fear among students, parents, and educators, while also disrupting academic activities and exposing affected children to long-term psychological trauma.
STCI noted that the consequences of school abductions extend beyond the immediate victims, contributing to increased school dropouts, poor attendance, anxiety among children, and a decline in public confidence in the education system.
The child rights organisation expressed concern that insecurity around educational facilities continues to persist despite interventions by federal and state authorities.
“The recent cases in Oyo State and Kwara State further demonstrate that existing security arrangements require urgent strengthening, improved coordination, and sustained investment to effectively safeguard schools, especially in high-risk areas,” the statement said.
The organisation called on the Federal Government and the governments of Oyo and Kwara states to intensify efforts to secure the release of all abducted children and ensure their safe return to their families.
It also urged security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid-response mechanisms, and increase proactive security deployment around schools, particularly in vulnerable communities.
STCI further called on school administrators, community leaders, and parents to collaborate closely with security agencies in establishing effective early-warning systems and community-based protection networks to prevent future attacks.
The organisation also appealed to development partners and humanitarian agencies to provide psychosocial support and reintegration services for affected children and families, stressing that recovery from traumatic experiences requires sustained care and attention.
Reaffirming its commitment to child protection and educational safety, STCI said protecting children remains a collective responsibility that demands urgent action from all stakeholders.
“Every child must be able to go to school without fear,” the organisation stated.