The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has warned that it may launch a nationwide strike following a recent spike in terrorist and bandit attacks on schools in Kebbi and Niger States.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, the National President of the Union, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, expressed deep outrage over the incidents and condemned the growing insecurity faced by teachers and students.
The NUT denounced the killing of a Vice Principal and a security guard, as well as the abduction of 25 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State. It also condemned the kidnapping of more than 300 pupils and 12 staff members from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara LGA, Niger State.
Describing the attacks as “barbaric and unacceptable,” the Union urged the Federal Government to urgently halt the persistent kidnappings and violence targeting schools to prevent the total collapse of the education system.
“These grievous attacks are not only assaults on schools, teachers, and learners, but direct blows to the foundation of education and the sustainable development of our nation,” Amba said. “Classrooms are meant to be sanctuaries for nurturing young minds. Destroying these learning environments spells doom for our children and for the nation.”
The Union lamented that repeated attacks have forced several schools to close, jeopardizing the future of children and exposing the government’s failure to fully implement the Safe Schools Declaration and related protective policies.
The NUT called on federal and state authorities to prioritise the rescue of abducted students and staff and to significantly strengthen security around schools, especially in high-risk areas.
“The recent attacks are a tragic reminder that teachers and learners have become an endangered species,” Amba added. “If this deadly trend continues, the NUT will have no option but to direct all teachers to down tools and stay at home until their safety is guaranteed. Stop the attacks on schools now.”
