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By Philip Nwosu
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, has called for stronger protection of civilians, civilian spaces and schools following a series of deadly attacks in Niger State and neighbouring areas.
In a statement, Fall expressed deep concern over the reported killing of more than 30 people and the abduction of several others during an attack on a village market in Kasuwan Daji, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State on January 3.
According to reports, the attackers also set fire to market stalls and nearby homes.
He noted that other disturbing incidents were recorded in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, as well as in parts of Kwara and Ondo States, with scores of casualties reported, including deaths and kidnappings.
Agwara LGA was previously the scene of a major abduction in November 2025, when more than 300 people were taken following an attack on Saint Mary’s Catholic School. The victims were later released.
Fall described the recent attacks as grave violations of human rights, particularly the right to life and the protection of civilians, including women and children. He added that assaults on schools and learning environments undermine the fundamental right to education.
“On behalf of the United Nations, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and wish the injured a swift recovery.”
He also called for the immediate release of all abducted persons and urged Nigerian authorities to ensure that those responsible for the attacks are held accountable in accordance with national and international human rights standards.
Emphasising the need to safeguard education, Fall stressed that students, schools and education personnel must be protected from all forms of attack.
“No child should ever be at risk while pursuing an education, which is a fundamental right for all children.”
He recalled that in November 2025, the United Nations reiterated the importance of implementing the Safe Schools Declaration in Nigeria to preserve the civilian nature of schools and ensure that children can continue learning safely, even in situations of conflict and insecurity.
According to him, the recent incidents further highlight the urgency of translating these commitments into concrete action.
The UN official reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to working closely with government authorities to strengthen the protection of civilians and promote safer learning environments across the country.
