The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a strong warning over what it describes as a rapidly deteriorating security environment that now poses an existential threat to Nigeria’s educational system. In a statement released by its National Public Relations Officer, Comrade Adeyemi Samson Ajasa, the body expressed deep worry over the surge in abductions, banditry, and terrorist activities that continue to target schools across the country.
NANS said the escalating attacks—particularly the recent abduction of students in Kebbi State and the invasion of a Catholic school in Niger State—are not random incidents but part of a deliberate effort by criminal groups to destabilize learning environments and cripple the nation’s intellectual future. The association noted that students are increasingly forced to choose between pursuing education and safeguarding their lives, a dilemma it described as “unacceptable in any civilized society.”
According to the statement, NANS condemned the pattern of violence affecting educational institutions and warned that continued insecurity threatens national stability, development, and international reputation.
The association issued a firm call to action directed at the Federal Government and the nation’s security architecture, insisting that the time for fragmented, reactionary measures has passed. It urged the government to dismantle terrorist financing networks, deploy modern surveillance infrastructure, strengthen community security models, and prioritize the rescue and reintegration of abducted students.
To the military and security agencies, NANS demanded a shift toward intelligence-driven, proactive operations, as well as improved inter-agency coordination to secure vulnerable school communities.
While mourning victims of recent attacks and praying for the safe return of abducted students, NANS reaffirmed its commitment to sustained advocacy. The body vowed to maintain pressure on all stakeholders until the safety of every Nigerian student is fully restored.
The statement was signed by Comrade Adeyemi Samson Ajasa, NANS National PRO.