UNICEF calls for urgent release of 78 abducted Borno schoolchildren

On May 16, 42 students were abducted from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School, and on June 29, 36 students and one teacher were taken from Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, both by suspected Boko Haram terrorists. UNICEF Nigeria Deputy Representative, Dr. Rownak Khan, expressed concern over the abductions, emphasizing that schools should be safe learning environments. She called for the safe return of all kidnapped children and highlighted UNICEF's collaboration with the Borno State Government on safe-school protocols.

Khan stated that UNICEF would provide psychosocial support, nutrition, and health services upon the children's release and stressed the Nigerian government's ultimate responsibility for their safety and return.