The Neem Foundation and the Global Survivors Fund condemn the mass abduction of hundreds of schoolchildren and teachers at schools in northern Nigeria last week and call for teachers and students across the region to be protected.
No child should ever fear going to school, and safeguarding their right to learn is non-negotiable – especially in conflict zones. Authorities must act swiftly to prevent further attacks. Many communities have endured repeated violence in the region, and recent events only deepen the fear and sense of insecurity.
Since 2017, Neem has been working with survivors of the 2014 school attacks in Borno state, where the group abducted more than 260 schoolchildren, and also with those taken from schools in Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara states. We are acutely aware of the violations students suffer in captivity, and the many issues they face upon their return, including trauma.
As we have learned, students affected by these attacks will not only require physical safety, but also trauma-responsive and flexible education when they return to learning.
Strong collaboration between authorities, communities and organisations present in the region is required to end these kidnappings.
We stand in solidarity with the affected children, their families, and their communities, and hope for the quick and peaceful release of all those who were taken.