By Ladi Dapson, Maiduguri
A non-governmental organisation, the Centre for Advocacy, Transparency, and Accountability Initiative (CATAI), has called on the Federal Government to scale up security and protection measures for schoolgirls across the country.
The Executive Director of CATAI, Abubakar Sadiq Muazu, made the call during a press briefing to mark the commencement of the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and attacks on education across Nigeria. The event, themed “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,” was held in Maiduguri on Monday.
According to him, the recent escalation of attacks on educational facilities in Kebbi and Niger states is worrisome, urging the government to devise stronger strategies to safeguard schools and students nationwide.
Sadiq said, “As we stand together to fight all forms of violence against women and girls, it is impossible to ignore the heartbreaking realities unfolding in our country today. Just a few days ago, the nation was shaken by the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi and Niger States.”
He noted that the abducted girls, like millions of others, simply wanted to learn, dream, and build a better future.
“Sadly, their hopes and aspirations are now on hold due to their abduction,” he added.
Sadiq described the incident as more than an attack on a school.
“This painful incident is not only an attack on education, but a direct attack on girls, their ambitions, and the fragile progress we have all worked tirelessly to protect,” he said.
He explained that for years, community volunteers, educators, development partners and humanitarian organisations have invested enormous effort into encouraging girls to return to school.
“As an organisation, we condemn this attack in its totality. Our hearts and prayers are with the families, relatives, and the government of Nigeria on this sad incident. We call on the government to intensify efforts to protect education and learning facilities.”
Sadiq urged duty bearers and security agencies to expedite action toward the safe release of the abducted schoolgirls.
“We urge all security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the fast release of the abducted schoolgirls and ensure their safety and well-being in line with international best practices.”
He also appealed for stronger collective action to protect girls from both physical and digital harm.
“Let us UNiTE to protect children and women in schools, end physical and digital violence, and uphold the rights and dignity of every woman and girl.”
As the global campaign begins, he stressed the need for national commitment to protecting girls everywhere.
“As we mark the 16 Days of Activism, we reaffirm that violence against girls—whether online, at home, in the community, or within learning spaces—is unacceptable.”
Sadiq concluded by reaffirming CATAI’s solidarity with affected families:
“The safety of every girl, both physically and digitally, is a responsibility we all share. Today, we stand in solidarity with the families and communities affected, and we renew our commitment to advocating for safe learning environments where every girl can thrive without fear.”
