Activists have called for urgent medical care and psychosocial support for the 24 schoolgirls recently freed from captivity in Kebbi State, highlighting the persistent insecurity of schools in Nigeria.
The Save Public Education Campaign (SPEC), led by Comrade Vivian Bello and Comrade Dimeji Macaulay, described the girls’ release as “a profound relief” but stressed that it underscores the country’s ongoing failure to protect schoolchildren. The group said that despite promises, policies, and emergency declarations, Nigerian schools—particularly in rural areas—remain increasingly unsafe.
In a statement issued Wednesday, SPEC commended all parties involved in securing the girls’ release, but insisted that repeated attacks on schools represent “a direct assault on Nigeria’s future,” calling for urgent, coordinated action from federal and state authorities.
“While this outcome brings a moment of joy, it also serves as a troubling reminder of the continued vulnerability of Nigerian schools, especially in rural and underserved communities,” the statement read. “No child should ever fear for their life simply because they seek an education.”
SPEC urged federal and state governments to implement comprehensive security measures, including trained personnel, early warning systems, and community-based intelligence networks. The organization also emphasized the need for a transparent investigation into the abduction to ensure accountability and prevent impunity.
Support for the rescued girls was highlighted, with an emphasis on sustained psychosocial care, medical treatment, and educational reintegration to help them recover and continue their studies safely. The group further called for the protection and strengthening of public education infrastructure, citing education as a fundamental right under the 2023 Child Rights Act.
Finally, SPEC advocated for robust community engagement and early-response mechanisms involving government, local communities, civil society, and security agencies to prevent future attacks and enhance student safety. The organization reaffirmed its solidarity with families of children still in captivity and called for intensified efforts to secure their release.
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