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Terrorism: 76 primary schools shut, 80 students remain in captivity in Borno – Official

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September 2, 2026

Faith Okoye

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Only 56 of the 113 primary schools are functioning in Askira-Uba local government area of Borno state, where about 80 students abducted during attacks on their schools in May and June remain in captivity, the local education authority has said.

Before the May attack in Mussa, 76 schools were operating, Fasuma Askira, the local government’s education secretary said.

Askira said insecurity forced education authorities to close schools in vulnerable communities around Mussa, Lassa, and other parts of the local government area. She said schools on the outskirts of communities and in other areas considered vulnerable were also affected.

The two school attacks in Askira-Uba occurred within 45 days. On 15 May, suspected insurgents attacked Mussa and abducted dozens of children. A register identified 40 missing children, although subsequent accounts from the community and government have produced varying figures.

On 29 June, insurgents attacked Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, while students were taking the National Examinations Council examination. Some abductees were recovered shortly after the attack.

The attacks heightened concerns about schooling in communities already affected by insecurity.

Askira said the local education authority advised the relevant ministry to temporarily close schools in areas affected by insecurity following the Mussa attack. She said junior secondary pupils from Mussa were moved to a government boarding school in Uba.

Education officials also advised the local government chairman to deploy community vigilantes around schools when classes resumed, she said.

Mrs Askira said soldiers were also deployed in Mussa and Lassa alongside local vigilantes. She said the situation had made it difficult to sustain schools near settlements considered vulnerable to attacks.

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Faith Okoye

is an emerging journalism talent at NOP News Nigeria, bringing fresh energy and dedication to the media landscape. Inspired by global icons Christiane Amanpour and Richard Quest, she combines rigorous reporting with a commitment to journalistic excellence.