The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Kebbi State has condemned the recent abduction of schoolgirls, describing it as a calculated attempt to weaken educational progress in the region.
Speaking at a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, the coalition’s chairman, Ibrahim Ngaski, said the attack on Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, was not only criminal but a direct assault on the future of children in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that suspected bandits stormed the school on November 17, abducting 25 female students.
”This heinous act is a direct attack on the safety, education and future of our children,” Ngaski said. “We condemn in the strongest terms the abduction and the violence against these innocent girls and their families. Education is a fundamental right, therefore, no child should live in fear of violence in whatsoever manner when pursuing their dreams.”
Ngaski urged the government to intensify search-and-rescue efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted girls and others still in captivity. He also called for strengthened security around schools and vulnerable communities.
He recommended relocating boarding schools situated in remote or high-risk areas to safer locations to prevent repeated attacks.
“Engage with community leaders and other critical stakeholders to foster dialogue, prevention, peace and resilience-building initiatives across all wards and villages,” he advised.
The chairman stressed the need for comprehensive support, including psychological care, for affected families. He also pressed for the full implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative, noting that Kebbi State is already a beneficiary of World Bank grants under the AGILE Project.
Ngaski urged stronger intelligence collaboration with neighbouring Sokoto, Zamfara and Niger states, warning that terrorist groups often exploit porous borders.
He added that continued support to security agencies and local security formations is essential to overcoming the state’s security challenges.
The chairman called on the international community, the media and all Nigerians to stand in solidarity with the affected families, while amplifying calls for swift justice and protection for the children.
