The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has demanded the immediate release of 25 schoolgirls abducted during Monday’s attack on Government Girls Secondary School in Maga, Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Gunmen stormed the school, killing the vice-principal and injuring a guard before taking the students. One girl reportedly escaped and is receiving medical care.

In a statement, UNICEF described the incident as “another tragic reminder” of the dangers facing education in Nigeria, stressing that schools must remain protected under international law. The agency urged full implementation of Nigeria’s 2015 Safe Schools Declaration, which the country endorsed alongside 120 other nations to safeguard learning during conflict.

The attack is the latest in a series of abductions in the Northwest, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted schools despite government pledges to strengthen security. UNICEF emphasized accountability and reinforced safety measures, declaring: “No child should be put at risk while pursuing an education.”

The incident has reignited calls for urgent action to protect schools and ensure safe learning environments, as Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity and religious intolerence that undermine education and community stability.