The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) has called for urgent protection of Nigerian children, teachers and schools to secure the nation’s future.

The association made the call in a statement signed by its National Secretary, Dr Kayode Adeyemi, and National President, Hajia Samira Jibir, in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Thursday.

Extending warm wishes to the children on the occasion of Children’s Day, NAPPS reaffirmed its commitment to the protection, education, and holistic development of the Nigerian child.

It said the celebration came at a critical moment when insecurity, kidnapping, and abduction of school children and teachers continue to threaten the nation’s educational system.

Condemning the increasing attacks on schools, it noted that the incidents also affect the emotional well-being of families and communities across the country.

“The persistent kidnapping and abduction of children and teachers remain unacceptable, barbaric; it’s a direct assault on the constitutional right of every Nigerian child to safe and quality education.

“Schools should remain centres of knowledge, hope, innovation and national development, and not zones of fear, terror, and uncertainty,” it said.

It stated that as an association committed to educational advancement and child protection, it called on all arms and tiers of government, security agencies, and stakeholders to strengthen the security of schools and communities.

The association further demanded improved security surveillance and intelligence gathering around schools, including the deployment of adequate security agents to vulnerable educational communities.

It also demanded the strengthening and full implementation of the Safe School Initiative across Nigeria, as well as the prompt rescue of abducted children and teachers, wherever such incidents occur.

NAPPS called for stronger collaboration between governments, school owners, parents, communities, and security agencies, emphasising a greater investment in child protection policies and educational safety infrastructure.

The association said it believed that every Nigerian child deserved to learn in peace, safety, dignity, and freedom, irrespective of location, religion, or socio-economic background.

“As we celebrate Children’s Day 2026, we urge all Nigerians to collectively protect our children, defend education, and support every effort aimed at securing schools across the federation. A nation that fails to protect its children risks undermining its future,” said the association.

It saluted the courage of Nigerian children, teachers, parents, and school administrators who continue to pursue education despite prevailing challenges. 

(NAN)