NANS Warns Of Deepening Security Failure As School Attacks Surge Across Nigeria

Nigeria’s student community is raising its voice again as the National Association of Nigerian Students says the nation’s security architecture is no longer meeting its most basic duty. In a new statement, NANS stressed that the protection of citizens, especially students, has become unreliable and unsafe despite repeated government assurances.

The NANS National President, Olushola Oladoja, noted that the Safe School Initiative has failed to deliver on its promises. He said billions invested in the programme have not translated into real safety for learners, a concern he expressed in a statement he personally signed on Wednesday.

Oladoja reflected on the past decade, describing it as a period marked by a persistent cycle of grief with no justice, meaningful reform, or confidence that students can sit in classrooms without fear. He said too many schools have fallen victim to coordinated terrorist attacks, incidents that point to intelligence gaps, poor coordination, and what he called leadership complacency.

He criticised police leadership and security agencies for what he described as a breakdown in internal security, saying this collapse has emboldened terrorists to target schools repeatedly. According to him, failure to coordinate intelligence, enforce preventive measures, and protect defenceless students is unacceptable.

Citing the recent attack in Kebbi, Oladoja said NANS is disturbed by signs of possible internal sabotage, especially as terrorists struck minutes after a reported withdrawal of security forces. He urged the National Security Adviser, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Service Chiefs to set up a high-level panel to investigate alleged insider collaboration. He insisted that the panel must examine security lapses, command failures, and the pattern of troop withdrawals shortly before major attacks.

Oladoja said students across the country are demanding accountability and a clear plan to secure schools, including an urgent overhaul of the Safe School Initiative. He warned that if nothing changes, NANS will have no choice but to begin nationwide civil disobedience, which could include shutting down highways, airports, and holding peaceful mass demonstrations.

He stressed that Nigeria is at a crossroads and that securing students is a non-negotiable responsibility. He added that NANS stands united and ready to defend the Nigerian student identity through dialogue when possible and civil action when necessary.

Northern Nigeria has recorded another rise in school attacks, forcing some state governments to temporarily shut down institutions. On Monday, gunmen stormed the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, abducting at least 24 schoolgirls and killing the vice principal. Days later, in Niger State, armed men invaded St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, seizing hundreds of students and staff. At least 50 students have since escaped.