Group demands safe return of abducted schoolchildren
By Pet Nathan
The Civil Society Action Coalition on Education for All (CSACEFA) has called on the Nigerian government to ensure the safe return of all abducted children across the country.
Hajiya Halima Mahdi, the Gombe State and North-East Zonal Coordinator of CSACEFA, stated this position in an interview and also condemned the continued abduction of schoolchildren across Nigeria, describing the trend as a serious threat to the future of education in the country.
She said the CSACEFA is concerned over the growing insecurity affecting schools and communities, noting that fear among children, parents, and society at large could undermine efforts to improve access to education.
According to her, the persistent attacks on students and educational institutions are creating an atmosphere of fear that discourages learning and school attendance.
“I condemn the continued abduction of schoolchildren all over the country due to insecurity. Mahdi said, “This is disturbing, as fear from children, parents, and society threatens the future of education.”
She warned that the country risks facing deeper social and economic challenges if urgent measures are not taken to protect children and guarantee access to education.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the insecurity crisis, she said, “What will happen to a society without education? Given the current trend of having many educated yet unemployed youths, a significant number of out-of-school children, and the political season that exploits and discards the youth, we are facing a serious crisis.
Mahdi called on authorities at all levels to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity and ensure the safe return of all abducted children.
“Stop abducting, stop kidnapping and bring back our children in good health,” she appealed.
The coordinator reiterated that protecting children and ensuring uninterrupted access to education should remain a priority for government, security agencies, communities, and other stakeholders.
Jewel Post reports that CSACEFA is Nigeria’s national education coalition advocating for improved access to quality education and the protection of the rights of learners across the country.
