The Director-General of World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has expressed sadness over the recent killings of teachers and kidnapping of students in parts of northern Nigeria, saying the attacks are distressing to her as a mother.
In a post on X, Okonjo-Iweala said the incidents have deepened concerns about the safety of children and teachers in schools across the country.
“As a mother, I am greatly saddened by the kidnappings in our country, particularly of our children and teachers from places of learning. My heart goes out to the children and all those kidnapped and to their families living in fear and uncertainty. May those taken be found, rescued and returned safely into the arms of those who love them. We pray to God for their protection and strength for every parent and relative waiting,” she wrote.
Iweala’s post followed a week marked by multiple school attacks.
On Friday, there was a large-scale abduction of students of St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri community, Agwara district, Niger State.
Earlier in the week, armed men attacked Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, where several female students were abducted.
The school’s vice-principal was killed during the incident, according to the state government. Security forces were deployed to the area, and search operations are continuing.