Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to urgently strengthen efforts to protect schoolchildren nationwide amid a growing wave of attacks and abductions.

In a statement shared on X on Tuesday, the organisation raised alarm over worsening insecurity affecting children in several parts of the country. It said the situation reflects a serious threat to education and safety.`

It described the sight of empty desks in classrooms as a heartbreaking symbol of children who should be in school but are instead caught up in insecurity.

“From Kwara to Kogi, Borno, Oyo states and across the country, there are empty chairs where children should be learning, playing, and dreaming about their future, not living in fear or captivity,” the group said.

Amnesty International said the continued attacks on schools and kidnappings of pupils show that children remain at grave risk, stressing the need for immediate government action.

Marking the International Day of the African Child, the organisation expressed solidarity with affected families and reiterated that every child’s right to education and safety must be protected.

“Every child is precious. Every child must come home. Every child is our nation’s future,” it stated.

The group urged the government to secure schools, strengthen community protection systems, and ensure the safe return of abducted children.

“President Bola Tinubu, Nigerian children cannot wait. Take urgent action to bring every child in captivity home,” Amnesty International added.