…seek tougher protection measures for schools in high-risk communities
By Gloria Ikibah
The House of Representatives has called for the immediate rescue of 42 schoolchildren abducted from Mussa Ward in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, as lawmakers renewed demands for stronger security around schools across Nigeria. 
The resolution was sequel to the adoption of a Motion of Urgent Public Importance sponsored by Rep. Midala Balami during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Debating the motion, Rep. Balami described the abduction as a disturbing reminder of the persistent insecurity confronting communities in Borno State and other parts of the country. He emphasised that safeguarding students, teachers and educational institutions remains a core responsibility of government and warned that repeated attacks on schools continue to threaten access to education and undermine public confidence in security efforts.
The lawmaker recalled a series of high-profile abductions in the state, including the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapping, in which many of the victims are yet to be reunited with their families. He also referenced the mass abduction of more than 400 adults and children from Ngoshe, as well as several kidnappings reported along the Biu-Buratai Road and surrounding communities.
According to Balami, the recurring attacks have left families traumatised, disrupted livelihoods and contributed to declining school enrolment and attendance in vulnerable areas, as many parents fear for the safety of their children.
He argued that urgent and coordinated action is needed to secure the release of those still in captivity, restore public confidence and reassure communities that their safety remains a priority.
The lawmaker also noted growing frustration among residents who increasingly expect concrete results in the fight against insecurity rather than repeated promises.
Following deliberations, the House urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the 42 abducted pupils and all other victims currently being held by kidnappers or insurgents, with a view to reuniting them with their families as quickly as possible.
Lawmakers further called for enhanced protection of schools in Borno State and other vulnerable regions through increased deployment of security personnel, improved intelligence gathering and more effective rapid-response mechanisms.
The House maintained that ensuring the safety of children and protecting access to education must remain a national priority, particularly in communities that continue to face threats from criminal and insurgent groups.
In addition, the House encouraged the expansion of school protection initiatives, including early warning systems, community-based security arrangements, security awareness programmes and improved surveillance infrastructure around educational institutions.
The House further mandated its Committees on National Security, Defence, Basic Education and Legislative Compliance to engage with relevant security agencies and report back on measures being taken to secure the release of abductees and improve security around schools nationwide.
Lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to develop and implement a comprehensive Safe Schools Security Framework aimed at protecting students, teachers and educational institutions from future attacks.
