The Gombe State and North-East Zonal Coordinator of the Civil Society Action Coalition on Education for All (CSACEFA), Hajiya Halima Mahdi, has condemned the continued abduction of schoolchildren across Nigeria, describing the trend as a serious threat to the future of education in the country.
Mahdi expressed concern 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.
“I condemn the continued abduction of schoolchildren all over the country due to insecurity,” she said.
According to her, the persistent attacks on students and educational institutions are creating an atmosphere of fear that discourages learning and school attendance.
“This is so disturbing as the future of education is at stake because of fear by both the children, parents and the society at large,” Mahdi stated.
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? With the trend now, with so many educated yet unemployed youths, many out-of-school children and the political season using and dumping the youths, we are in trouble.”
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.
CSACEFA, the Civil Society Action Coalition on Education for All, is Nigeria’s national education coalition advocating for improved access to quality education and the protection of the rights of learners across the country.
