More than 14,000 schools across Nigeria and other countries in West and Central Africa have been forced to close due to the growing impact of armed conflict and insecurity, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The agency said the prolonged violence has disrupted education for millions of children, leaving many without access to safe learning environments and increasing their vulnerability to exploitation, child labour, recruitment by armed groups, and early marriage.
UNICEF noted that attacks on schools, displacement of communities, and persistent insecurity have significantly affected educational systems across several countries in the region, creating one of the world’s most severe education crises.
The organisation warned that prolonged school closures could have lasting consequences for children’s academic development, mental health, and future economic opportunities if urgent action is not taken.
It called on governments, humanitarian organisations, and development partners to strengthen the protection of schools, expand access to alternative learning opportunities, and invest in rebuilding education systems affected by conflict.
UNICEF also stressed the importance of ensuring that children displaced by violence continue to receive quality education, describing learning as a fundamental right that must be protected even during periods of crisis.
The agency reiterated that education remains one of the most effective tools for promoting stability, protecting children from violence, and supporting long-term peace and development across conflict-affected communities.
As insecurity continues to affect several parts of West and Central Africa, UNICEF urged all parties involved in conflicts to respect international humanitarian law by protecting schools, teachers, and students from attacks.
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