UN Urges Stronger Protection for Civilians and Schools Amid Attacks in Niger State
By Naija Enquirer Staff
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, has called for urgent protection of civilians, civilian spaces, and schools following a series of violent attacks in Niger State and other parts of north-central Nigeria.
On 3 January, an attack on a village market in Kasuwan Daji, Borgu Local Government Area (LGA) reportedly left over 30 people dead, with an unspecified number abducted. The assailants also set fire to market stalls and nearby homes.
Other attacks were reported in Agwara LGA in Niger State, as well as in Kwara and Ondo States, with casualties including deaths and kidnappings. Agwara LGA was previously the site of an abduction in November 2025, where more than 300 people – later released – were kidnapped following an assault on Saint Mary’s Catholic School.
Speaking on behalf of the United Nations, Mr. Fall condemned these attacks as grave violations of human rights, particularly the rights of women and children, and emphasized that the violence undermines the right to education.
“On behalf of the United Nations, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and wish the injured a swift recovery. I also call for the immediate release of all those abducted and urge authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable in line with national and international human rights standards,” he said.
He stressed that students, schools, and education personnel must be protected from all forms of attack, noting that no child should ever be at risk while pursuing an education, a fundamental right for all children.
In November 2025, the United Nations reiterated the need for the implementation of the Safe Schools Declaration in Nigeria to safeguard schools as civilian spaces and ensure children can learn safely, even amid conflict and insecurity. These recent attacks highlight the continued need for urgent action.
Mr. Fall concluded by affirming the UN’s commitment to working with Nigerian authorities to strengthen civilian protection and promote safer learning environments nationwide.
