Richard Ginika Izuora
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has promised to provide psychosocial support to the released Jangebe schoolgirls and their families.
UNICEF Nigeria Representative, Peter Hawkins, stated this in a statement in Kaduna on Tuesday, March 2.
Hawkins added that UNICEF would also work with the Zamfara State Ministry of Education; on how to ensure the safe return of all children to school in the state.
“We are relieved with the news of the reported release of the over 200 students of Government Girls’ Secondary School Jangebe in Zamfara, North-west Nigeria.
“While we rejoice at the release of the schoolgirls; and look forward to their safe return to their families.
“We reiterate that attacks on students and schools are not only reprehensible; but a violation of the right of children to an education.
“It is a right that any society can ill-afford to violate.”
The UNICEF official called on the Federal Government to take measures to protect schools in the country; so that children would not be scared of going to school; and parents not afraid of sending their children to school.
According to him, schools must be safe places to study and develop; as well as learning should not become a risky endeavour.