By Sadiq Iliyasu
Updated October 13, 2024
In response to growing concerns over the safety of educational institutions in Nigeria, UNICEF has joined forces with Jigawa State and 14 other states to implement the Safe School Policy. This initiative, aimed at protecting schools from attacks by non-state actors, was officially launched during the inauguration of the Jigawa State Committee on Safe School in Dutse on Friday.
UNICEF’s Education Specialist at the Kano Field Office, Mr. Muttaka Muktar, underscored the urgency of the initiative, highlighting that over 910 schools have been destroyed and at least 1,500 closed due to security challenges across the country. “Attacks on schools have intensified in recent years, particularly in the North-East, where student abductions have become a serious issue,” he stated.
Muktar reported that armed groups have targeted approximately 1,500 schools since 2014, resulting in the abduction of at least 1,413 students and 21 teachers, with 16 fatalities recorded. Currently, about 867 schools remain closed nationwide, depriving thousands of children of their right to education.
The significance of this initiative is further amplified by its potential to mitigate the far-reaching consequences of school closures, which disrupt learning and exacerbate the out-of-school children crisis in Nigeria.
The Nigerian government endorsed the Safe School Declaration (SSD) in 2015, with former President Muhammadu Buhari ratifying it in December 2019. To further support this effort, the National Policy on Safety, Security, and Violence-Free Schools was approved in August 2021, establishing a framework for the protection of educational institutions.
UNICEF’s involvement has facilitated the development of implementation plans in various states, including Jigawa. However, Muktar emphasized the need for accelerated efforts: “While we’ve seen gradual improvement, there’s still much work to be done to ensure schools are safe for all children.”
The newly formed 32-member Jigawa State Safe School Committee will be responsible for implementing the policy within the state. Comprising representatives from education, finance, security, local government, civil society, and other stakeholders, the committee aims to address security threats to education.
Jigawa State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Isa Yusuf-Chamo, praised the initiative, urging committee members to demonstrate commitment and diligence in their responsibilities. He remarked, “The selection of committee members was based on their relevance and track record. We expect nothing less than dedication in implementing this crucial policy.”
Dr. Haruna Mairiga, Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and a committee member, expressed his appreciation for the collaboration with UNICEF. He emphasized its importance in tackling educational challenges in Jigawa, noting the commitment of Governor Umar Namadi to prioritize education safety.
The Jigawa State Safe School Committee will begin its work immediately, operating under collaboratively developed terms of reference. Their efforts will be vital in ensuring that learning institutions remain safe havens for children, free from the threats posed by armed groups.
