“No Child Should Learn in Fear”: Nigerian Military Releases 6 Practical Tips to Protect Schools After Latest Abductions

After the painful news of schoolchildren being taken in Oyo and Borno States, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has stepped in with a heartfelt message and a clear action plan. Their message? It’s time to get serious about school security.

In a public advisory released on Friday, the military acknowledged that the recent abductions are a wake-up call. While the statement was firm, it was also deeply concerned, stating plainly that “no child should have to learn in fear.”

Instead of just pointing fingers, the DHQ laid out six down to earth steps that schools, parents, and communities can take together to keep kids safe. Here’s what they’re recommending:

1. Build a real fence and use tech: Schools need proper walls or fences, not just open fields. They’re also urging schools to install CCTV cameras to watch for trouble before it arrives.

2. Get the local boys involved: Instead of hiring strangers, schools should reach out to trusted young people in the host community to help keep an eye on things.

3. Practice, practice, practice: Every school needs a solid emergency plan and regular drills. Kids and staff should know exactly what to do and where to go if something goes wrong.

4. Train the teachers: Staff members should be taught how to spot suspicious behavior (like a stranger lurking around) and know who to call immediately.

5. Team up: This isn’t just on the school principal. Parents, local leaders, police, and the military all need to be on a group chat (figuratively speaking) to share information fast.

6. See something, say something: The military is asking everyone—students, cooks, guards, and parents—to speak up the moment something feels off. “When you see something, say something,” the advisory repeats.

A sad history, a stubborn crisis

This advice isn't new. It echoes the Safe Schools Initiative launched way back in 2014 after the Chibok girls were kidnapped. But despite that program, the abductions haven't stopped. A recent data investigation by Premium Times found that 2,310 students have been kidnapped in 30 school attacks since 2014. Even worse, under the current administration, 13 mass school abductions involving 674 students have already happened.

The military is essentially saying: We have the playbook. Now, let's actually run the plays.