The President Bola Tinubu government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening school safety and protecting the learning environments across the country, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Education minister Tunji Alausa said this in the wake of the abduction of dozens of schoolgirls at the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi.

Armed bandits killed a teacher and abducted at least 25 students in the attack on Monday.

In a statement, Mr Alausa described the incident as “heartbreaking”, extending his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the school community, and the entire people of Kebbi State.

Mr Alausa stressed that no parent should ever experience such terror, and no teacher should lose their life while performing the noble duty of educating Nigeria’s children.

The minister condemned the attack as a “cruel and senseless act”, noting that it was not only an assault on innocent children and educators but also on the future of the nation.

He stated that the Federal Ministry of Education was working closely with security and intelligence agencies and the Kebbi State Government to secure the safe return of the abducted girls and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

“This painful moment strengthens our resolve. Our children deserve to learn in safety. Our teachers deserve to serve without fear. We will not relent until every school in Nigeria is a place of protection and hope,” Mr Alausa said.

(NAN)