Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to take urgent and stronger action to protect schoolchildren across the country, following rising cases of attacks and abductions.
The organisation made the call in a post shared on X on Tuesday, where it expressed concern over the safety of children in different parts of Nigeria.
It described scenes of empty chairs in classrooms as a painful reminder of children who should be learning but are instead affected by insecurity.
“From Kwara to Kogi, Borno, Oyo states and across the country, are empty chairs where children should be learning, playing, and dreaming about their future, not living in fear or captivity,” the organisation said.
Amnesty International said the continued attacks on schools and kidnapping of pupils show that Nigerian children remain at serious risk and require urgent government intervention.
On the International Day of the African Child, the organisation also expressed solidarity with affected families, saying children’s right to education and safety must be protected.
“Every child is precious. Every child must come home. Every child is our nation’s future,” it stated.
Amnesty International urged the Nigerian government to act swiftly to secure schools, strengthen community protection, and ensure that abducted children are safely returned.
“President Tinubu, Nigerian children cannot wait. Take urgent action to bring every child in captivity home,” the group added.