The United Nations (UN) has expressed deep concern over the recent wave of school abductions in Nigeria and called for a violence-free learning environment where children can access education without fear of kidnapping, attacks, or intimidation.
In a statement issued on June 5, the UN urged the immediate and safe release of all abducted pupils, students, and teachers, particularly those taken during recent attacks in Oyo and Borno states. The organization also called on Nigerian authorities to intensify efforts to protect schools and ensure the safety of learners and educators.
The appeal comes amid a resurgence of mass school kidnappings across the country. In May alone, gunmen abducted dozens of pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State, while separate attacks in Borno and other states targeted educational institutions.
The UN emphasized that every child has the right to learn in a safe environment and warned that persistent attacks on schools threaten education, child welfare, and long-term development.
The statement aligns with previous calls by UNICEF and UNESCO, which have repeatedly condemned attacks on schools in Nigeria and urged stronger protection for children, teachers, and educational facilities.
The latest abductions have triggered nationwide protests by teachers’ unions, labour groups, parents, and student organizations demanding the rescue of victims and improved school security. Public school teachers in Oyo State have also embarked on industrial action over the continued captivity of abducted pupils and colleagues.
According to security and humanitarian reports, school kidnappings remain one of Nigeria’s most persistent security challenges, with thousands of students having been abducted since the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ kidnapping.
The UN said creating safe, violence-free schools is essential to protecting children’s rights and preventing further disruption to education across the country.
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