Save the Children International (SCI), a non-governmental organisation, has urged the government, security agencies, and communities to unite in protecting education facilities from the impact of conflict and violence.
The SCI Yobe Field Manager, Mr Dennis Elisha, made the appeal on tuesday in Damaturu at an event marking the International Day to Protect Education from Attack (IDPEA).
The commemoration of the IDPEA 2025 had the theme: “Securing Education, Safeguarding the Future.” Elisha stressed that a collective approach is vital to ensuring a safe learning environment for children.
Government officials, security experts, civil society and development partners were in attendance at the event to address the risks facing education in conflict-affected areas.
Elisha said education remained every child’s fundamental right and pathway to a brighter future, but was increasingly under threat in zones affected by insecurity.
He explained that when children are denied safe learning environments, their futures are stolen and society was weakened.
“SCI as an organisation reaffirms its commitment to protecting education, but this goal requires collective effort,” he said.
Elisha called on government institutions, military agencies, traditional leaders, and parents to play active roles in safeguarding education in Yobe and across Nigeria.
Prof. Abba Adam, Yobe Commissioner of Basic and Secondary Education, stressed that education was the foundation of society, but faced enormous threats.
Adam, represented by Abdullahi Yakubu, a ministry official, said that collective commitment, sound strategies and adequate investment would help create safe learning spaces for all children.
