September 10, (THEWILL) — Grave violations against children in conflict zones surged to unprecedented levels in 2024, with Nigeria ranking fourth among the most affected countries, according to the latest UN Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC) Report.
The annual report, released on June 20, 2025, revealed that 41,370 grave violations were committed against children in 2024, 45% rise from 2022 and a 25% increase compared to 2023, which had already set a record.
Over 28% of the cases involved the killing or maiming of children, while 18% related to child recruitment by armed groups.
Sexual violence against children saw a sharp 35% rise within the same period.
The report further disclosed that more than 10,000 students and teachers were killed, abducted, arrested, or harmed in attacks on schools.
The worst-hit countries were Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory (notably Gaza), the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, Nigeria, and Haiti.
While non-state armed groups were responsible for almost half of the violations, government forces were identified as the leading perpetrators of child killings, school and hospital attacks, and denial of humanitarian access.
“These violations threaten not only individual lives but the future of entire communities,” the report warned.
Virginia Gamba, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, described the trend as children being “robbed of their childhood” and urged governments to treat them as victims rather than criminals.
A related UN report presented to the General Assembly highlighted the failure to respect humanitarian law, the deepening humanitarian crises, and the need for urgent international action.
Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, Acting Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, stressed:
“Children are paying a huge price. They are being starved, displaced, and killed. Only lasting peace can guarantee their protection.”
Helen Pattinson, CEO of War Child UK, added:
“The record number of violations marks a shameful new low in the international community’s failure to protect children. To normalise this level of violence is to accept the dismantling of our collective humanity.”
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
