The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the safe return of abducted students and teachers across Nigeria, stressing that the protection of educational institutions and learning communities must remain a top national priority.
NANS President, Akinteye Babatunde, said the association remains deeply concerned about the increasing threats facing students and education workers, noting that insecurity within the education sector poses a serious danger to the future of the country. He stated that the association would continue to engage relevant authorities and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that victims regain their freedom and that schools become safer environments for learning.
According to him, NANS stands in solidarity with all individuals and groups working towards the rescue of abducted students and teachers, emphasizing that the welfare and safety of learners and educators should never be compromised. He noted that the recurring incidents of kidnapping and attacks targeting schools have created widespread fear among students, teachers, and parents, leading to growing concerns about access to quality education.
Akinteye warned that continued insecurity could discourage school attendance and negatively affect academic activities across the country. He explained that education can only flourish in an atmosphere where students and teachers feel safe, secure, and protected.
“Education remains one of the most important pillars of national development. When students are unable to learn without fear and teachers cannot carry out their responsibilities safely, the entire nation suffers the consequences. It is therefore important for all stakeholders to unite in addressing these challenges and ensuring the safety of our schools,” he said.
The NANS president further stated that the association would continue to work closely with labour unions, parents, community leaders, security agencies, civil society groups, and other concerned Nigerians to sustain advocacy efforts aimed at securing the release of all abducted victims. He added that collective action and public engagement remain essential in drawing attention to the plight of those in captivity and encouraging swift intervention by authorities.
He also emphasized that the association’s primary concern is the welfare of the affected students and teachers, urging Nigerians to remain focused on the humanitarian aspect of the situation rather than allowing political interests to overshadow the urgent need for action.
“Our concern is the safety and wellbeing of the victims and their families. This is a period that requires compassion, unity, and responsibility. The focus must remain on bringing every abducted student and teacher back home safely and ensuring that such incidents do not happen again,” he stated.
Akinteye maintained that advocacy efforts concerning the lives of students and teachers should be approached with sincerity and a genuine commitment to national interest. He stressed that the campaign for safer schools should not be used for personal or partisan gains, but rather as a platform for constructive engagement and meaningful solutions.
He also urged media practitioners and members of the public to promote accurate information and responsible communication, noting that misinformation can divert attention from critical issues affecting students and educational institutions.
Reaffirming NANS’ commitment to defending the interests of Nigerian students, he said the association would continue to champion policies and initiatives that enhance security within schools and protect the rights of learners and educators.
He called on the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to intensify efforts aimed at rescuing victims of abduction and strengthening security around schools nationwide. According to him, every day spent in captivity increases the emotional and psychological burden on victims and their families, making urgent action imperative.
Akinteye concluded by urging all Nigerians to support ongoing efforts to improve school safety, stressing that safeguarding education is a shared responsibility that requires commitment from government, communities, and citizens alike.
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