The Kaduna State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria has advised Christian-owned schools situated on the outskirts of the state capital to suspend operations or convert to day-school systems as bandit attacks and student abductions intensify across the country.
The state CAN Chairman, Rev. Caleb Ma’aji, issued the caution in Kaduna while reacting to the recent mass abductions of schoolchildren in Kebbi and Niger States.
Ma’aji said schools operating in rural locations remain especially vulnerable and should, as a precaution, shut down temporarily or adopt heightened security measures to prevent attacks.
“Alternatively, if need be, schools on the outskirts of Kaduna metropolis should be closed down for now to ensure the safety of the students until the security situation improves,” he said.
He urged federal and state authorities to take decisive steps to secure learning environments, stressing that the country must not witness a repeat of the incidents recorded in Kebbi and Niger States.
Ma’aji sympathised with the governments and families affected by the recent kidnappings and prayed for the safe return of all abducted students, teachers and residents.
He called on parents to remain steadfast and hopeful, and appealed to government at all levels to intensify efforts to protect citizens amid what he described as “disturbing and alarming” escalations in bandit attacks.
“Nigerians deserve a conducive environment to go about their daily activities, improve their standard of living and fully realise their potential,” he added.
