By Inawole Ayomikun Oluwatimilyin

September 9th stands as the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the critical need to safeguard educational institutions and personnel, particularly in conflict zones. Nigeria, a country that has faced numerous challenges in this regard, provides a relevant example of why this day is crucial.

The Role of September 9

The International Day to Protect Education from Attack serves as a platform to highlight these issues and push for greater action. It reminds the global community of the urgent need to protect educational institutions and personnel from violence. For Nigeria, this day is a call to renew efforts to ensure that schools are safe spaces for learning and growth, free from the threat of attack.

Focus Nigeria

Nigeria has been grappling with various forms of violence that impact its educational system. Insurgent groups, most notably Boko Haram, have waged an ongoing campaign of terror against schools, particularly in the northern regions of the country.

Boko Haram, an Islamist extremist group, emerged in Nigeria in the early 2000s. Founded by Mohammed Yusuf in 2002 in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, the group initially focused on opposing Western education and influences, which they viewed as corrupting Islamic values.

Boko Haram’s insurgency gained momentum around 2009 after Yusuf was killed in police custody. The group intensified its violent campaign, targeting government institutions, security forces, and civilians. Their activities spread beyond Nigeria’s borders, affecting neighboring countries like Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.

The group’s tactics included bombings, kidnappings, and attacks on villages, with the abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok in 2014 bringing global attention to their cause. Over the years, Boko Haram has splintered into factions, with the more extreme faction aligning with ISIS and calling itself the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP).As of late 2024, Boko Haram’s influence has waned due to increased military pressure from the Nigerian government and regional forces. However, ISWAP and other splinter groups continue to be active in the region, maintaining some level of insurgency. The situation remains fluid, with sporadic violence and ongoing challenges in fully eradicating the group’s influence.This extremist group, whose name translates to “Western education is forbidden,” has been responsible for a multitude of attacks on educational institutions.

Education amidst Insurgency

The bandit insurgency in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions, has significantly impacted the security of education. Over the past decade, armed groups known as bandits have increasingly targeted schools, leading to widespread disruptions in education. These groups often abduct students, teachers, and other school staff for ransom, creating a climate of fear and instability.

The frequent attacks on educational institutions have led to the closure of many schools, particularly in areas like Zamfara, Katsina, and Niger states. The insecurity forces students to stay at home, disrupts their learning, and contributes to increased dropout rates. Additionally, teachers face threats and violence, which further exacerbates the challenge of maintaining a stable educational environment.

1. December 2020 – Kankara, Katsina State: In a high-profile attack, bandits abducted 344 students from the Government Science Secondary School in Kankara.

2. February 26, 2021, bandits kidnapped 279 girls from the Government Girls Secondary School in Jangebe.

3. June 17, 2021,Bandits attacked the Federal Government College in Birnin Yauri,They kidnapped several students and teachers, marking another disturbing incident in the wave of school attacks.

4. May 30, 2021, bandits abducted 136 students from the Salihu Tanko Islamic School in Tegina.

5. October 3, 2022, bandits attacked a secondary school in Kaduna, leading to the abduction of several students.

The Nigerian government and various organizations have struggled to address this crisis effectively. While efforts have been made to improve security and negotiate with the bandits, the persistent nature of the violence and the high ransom demands have hindered progress. This situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety of schools and the continuation of education in the affected regions.

Impact on Education

The consequences of these attacks are dire. Schools are often forced to close temporarily or permanently, depriving students of the opportunity to learn. Teachers and students are at risk of abduction, injury, or death, further contributing to the erosion of educationally and infrastructure. The disruption extends beyond the immediate physical damage;gg it affects the long-term educational and economic prospects of affected communities. Children who are unable to attend school are more likely to face limited future opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and instability.

These assaults have not only caused physical destruction but have also instilled fear, disrupting the education of countless children.

International and Local Responses

In response to these challenges, various international organizations, including UNESCO and UNICEF, have championed efforts to protect education from attack. They advocate for stronger protections under international law and support initiatives aimed at creating safer learning environments. Locally, the Nigerian government, along with NGOs and community groups, has been working to enhance school security and support displaced students. These efforts include the development of emergency response plans and the provision of psychological support for affected children.

Looking Ahead

The path to a secure educational environment in Nigeria requires continued commitment from both national and international stakeholders. Enhanced protection measures, community resilience-building, and sustained advocacy are essential to safeguarding education from violence. As we observe September 9th, it is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the right to an education free from fear and violence.The observance of the Day, underscores the universal right to education and the need to defend it against all forms of aggression. For Nigeria, it represents a moment to reflect on the challenges faced and to redouble efforts to create a safe and supportive environment for learning.

Edited by Joseph EMERIBE