The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has revealed that more than 14,000 schools across Nigeria and other countries in West and Central Africa have been forced to close due to ongoing conflicts, insecurity and violence.
UNICEF said the development has disrupted the education of millions of children, exposing them to increased risks of exploitation, child labour, early marriage and recruitment by armed groups.
According to the organisation, attacks on schools, displacement of families and growing insecurity have continued to undermine access to education in several countries within the region, creating one of the world’s most severe education crises.
The agency expressed concern that prolonged school closures are widening learning gaps and threatening efforts to achieve quality and inclusive education for all children.
UNICEF noted that children living in conflict-affected communities are among the most vulnerable, as many are denied safe learning environments and opportunities to develop essential skills needed for their future.
The organisation called on governments, development partners and humanitarian agencies to strengthen measures aimed at protecting schools, teachers and learners while ensuring continued access to education through emergency and alternative learning programmes.
UNICEF also stressed the need for increased investment in safe school initiatives, psychosocial support services and educational infrastructure to help affected children return to learning as quickly as possible.
The agency reiterated that education remains a fundamental right and a critical tool for promoting stability, resilience and long-term development, urging all stakeholders to prioritise the protection of children and educational institutions in conflict-affected areas.
The disclosure highlights the growing impact of insecurity on education across the region and the urgent need for coordinated action to safeguard the future of millions of school-age children.