18/11/2025
*Recurring Abductions in Northern Nigeria: A Growing National Tragedy*
By Patrick Adeokhor
The abduction of schoolchildren in northern Nigeria is fast becoming a recurring decimal; a haunting crisis that continues to undermine national security, educational development, and public confidence in government institutions. While other regions are embracing and investing in education, the northern part of the country is seemingly entangled in a cycle of violence that frustrates the efforts of students, parents, teachers, and policymakers alike.
This disturbing trend began in global spotlight with the abduction of 276 Chibok girls in Borno State back in 2014, under the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan. Since then, over 1,500 schoolchildren have been kidnapped in similar attacks, spanning nearly every year and triggering both national outrage and international concern.
In light of these persistent failures, it’s no surprise that global powers such as the United States have designated Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" for religious and security-related human rights violations. Yet, amidst the outcry, one question remains: What exactly is wrong with Nigeria’s security architecture?
On the morning of Monday, November 17, 2025, armed men stormed the Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Danko/Wasagu LGA of Kebbi State, around 4 a.m. The attackers breached the school’s perimeter, opened fire, and abducted 25 female students from their boarding hostel.
In a heroic but tragic twist, Vice Principal Hassan Yakubu Makuku was shot dead as he tried to shield the girls, while another staff member sustained injuries.
The Nigeria Police Force, in conjunction with the military and local vigilante groups, launched an immediate search-and-rescue operation. Security personnel have since been combing nearby forests and communities to recover the girls and apprehend the kidnappers.
However, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu condemned the attack and