Amnesty International has expressed deep concern over the continued closure of schools in parts of Sokoto State due to insecurity, warning that thousands of children risk being deprived of education and that an entire generation could suffer long-term consequences if urgent action is not taken. The rights organisation said persistent violence and repeated attacks have made access to education increasingly difficult across affected communities.
In a statement, Amnesty International said prolonged school shutdowns expose children to higher risks of child labour, early marriage, recruitment by criminal groups and other forms of exploitation. The organisation stressed that education is a fundamental human right and urged Nigerian authorities to ensure that schools remain safe rather than allowing insecurity to deny children their future.
The organisation noted that the worsening security situation in north-western Nigeria has repeatedly disrupted learning, forcing many families to keep their children at home out of fear of attacks and abductions. It warned that unless decisive measures are taken to secure schools and surrounding communities, the region could witness a sharp increase in the number of out-of-school children.
Amnesty International called on the Federal Government and the Sokoto State Government to strengthen security around educational institutions, investigate attacks on schools, and hold perpetrators accountable. It also urged authorities to provide psychosocial support for affected pupils and teachers and to implement measures that would allow children to return to safe learning environments as quickly as possible.
The organisation maintained that protecting schools is essential to breaking the cycle of poverty and violence in northern Nigeria. It warned that every day children remain out of the classroom increases the risk of permanent educational setbacks, making immediate action critical to safeguarding the future of thousands of young Nigerians.
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