In a disheartening revelation, a staggering 1,680 schoolchildren have fallen victim to abductions since the tragic 2014 kidnapping of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok, Borno State. This alarming trend has also instilled fear in countless others, effectively preventing them from attending school due to the looming threat of attacks.
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Save the Children International (SCI), a prominent advocacy group, brought this distressing statistic to light through a statement issued by its Media Manager, Kunle Olawoyin. The abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls sparked the globally recognized #BringBackOurGirls movement, triggering protests that garnered support from celebrities and public figures, including Malala Yousafzai, Hillary Clinton, and then First Lady Michelle Obama.
Unveiling their new data analysis, Save the Children emphasized the ongoing spotlight on attacks targeting schools, shedding light on the harrowing violence that both schoolchildren and teachers endure across Nigeria.
According to the statement, “In addition to the abductions, more than 180 schoolchildren lost their lives and nearly 90 sustained injuries in 70 attacks between April 2014 and December 2022. Additionally, an estimated 60 school staff members were kidnapped and 14 tragically killed. The period also saw the destruction of 25 school buildings.”
This wave of violence predominantly occurred in North-West Nigeria (49 attacks), followed by North-Central Nigeria (11 attacks).
Save the Children’s findings reveal the far-reaching consequences of these attacks on communities and children’s access to education. The aftermath often entails a mass exodus of children from schools, leading to prolonged closures. In Katsina state, located in the North-Western part of the country, nearly 100 schools remain shuttered due to insecurity, negatively impacting the education of over 30,000 children.
The aftermath of these attacks leaves children and communities traumatized, with limited access to psychological support. Focus group discussions with affected communities uncovered the deeply ingrained fear that prevents many children from returning to school. One survivor of the Chibok school attack expressed, “I am afraid of becoming a victim again and fearful of falling prey to insurgents.”
Famari Barro, Country Director at Save the Children Nigeria, stressed the urgent need for preventative measures and comprehensive support for affected children and their families.
As the nation grapples with this disheartening reality, Save the Children’s statement concludes: “Over a decade since the Chibok tragedy captured global attention, more than 90 girls remain captive or missing, and countless children and educators continue to live under the shadow of violence, often compelling them to abandon their education permanently. Combating the enduring trauma and educational setbacks resulting from these attacks requires prioritizing children’s well-being and their right to education, as highlighted by the implementation of the Safe Schools Declaration throughout the nation.”
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