The Federal Government has earmarked N1.2bn in the 2022 Appropriation Bill to provide security infrastructures in the nation’s 104 unity schools.This is contained in the bill currently before the National Assembly.
Fewer than 1,421 school children have been abducted between December 2020 and September 2021, with a total of 80 students kidnapped from Federal Government College, Birnin-Yauri in Kebbi State over 118 days ago.
However, the budget appropriation stated that a total of N1.2bn had been allocated for the “Provision of security infrastructure in 104 unity colleges, perimeter fencing, solar street lights, solar powered motorized borehole and CCTV.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Children Emergency Fund has expressed concerns over the failure of the Federal Government to rescue abducted students still in captivity. Says The Chief of UNICEF Field Office, Kano, who also oversees Sokoto and other North Western states, MaulidWarfa.
UNICEF reiterates that attacks on schools and abduction of learners are a gross violation of children’s rights, and a horrific experience for children to go through – one which could have long-lasting effects on their mental health and well-being.
