November 24, (THEWILL) — A non-governmental organisation, the Centre for Advocacy, Transparency, and Accountability Initiative (CATAI), has called on the federal government to scale up security and protection for school-girls across the country.
The Executive Director (CATAI), Abubakar Sadiq Muazu, made this called during a press briefing to mark the commencement of the 2025 16-Day Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Attack on Education across Nigeria with theme “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls”, held in Maiduguri on Monday.
According to him, the recent escalation of attacks on educational facilities across in Kebbi and Niger states is worrisome, urging the federal government to devise means to safeguard learning and students in the country.
Sadiq said, “As we stand together to fight all forms of violence against women and girls, it is impossible to ignore the heartbreaking realities unfolding in our country today. Just a few days ago, the nation was shaken by the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi and Niger states.
“These young girls, like millions of others, simply wanted to learn, dream, and build a better future. Sadly, their hopes and aspirations are now on hold due to their abduction.
“This painful incident is not only an attack on a school, but a direct attack on girls, their ambitions, and the fragile progress we have all worked tirelessly to protect”, Sadiq disclosed.
He explained that for years, community volunteers, educators, development partners, and humanitarian organisations have invested enormous effort into encouraging girls to return to school.
“As an organisation, we condemn this attack in its totality. Our hearts and prayers are with the families, relatives and the government of Nigeria on this sad incident, while we call on the government to intensify efforts to protect education and learning facilities.
“We are calling on duty bearers and all security agencies to intensify efforts in securing the fast release of the abducted school girls and to ensure their safety and well-being in line with International best practice.
“Let us UNiTE to protect children and women in school, end physical and digital violence and uphold the rights and dignity of every woman and girl.
“As we mark the 16 Days of Activism, we reaffirm that violence against girls, whether online, at home, in the community, or within learning spaces, is unacceptable.
“The safety of every girl, both physically and digitally, is a responsibility we all share. Today, we stand in solidarity with the families and communities affected, and we renew our commitment to advocating for safe learning environments where every girl can thrive without community”, Sadiq concluded.
