This was stated by the President during the opening of the Safe School Programme in Abuja on Tuesday.

Buhari, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, also expressed his frustration with the country’s security challenges.

“The constant attacks on the country’s educational system, such as kidnapping, abduction of pupils/students, increased insurgent activities, and general insecurity in our schools have exacerbated many factors responsible for the rising number of out-of-school children,” he said.

“It is disheartening to note that even when the abducted students are released, the trauma of the incidences remain long in their minds; hence the plan to have teachers trained on psycho-social support.

“There are more than 12 million children currently traumatized and afraid of going to school, especially the girl child.

“I must tell you that it has been tough dealing with these security challenges and their effect. Moving forward, our faith in the nation is unshaken. We have been strong, determined, and robust in order to enhance the security of learning institutions.

“Permit me to share with you a report released by S.B Morgen which revealed that a total of 1,462 learners and education personnel were abducted between 1st December 2019and September 2021 in school-related abductions, as well as home and community-related abductions of learners and teachers.

“A total of 17 teachers and students have perished as a result of these kidnappings. On the other hand, for students currently in school, the fear and trauma of having their classmates and friends attacked have harmed the quality of their education, as concentration and attention span for learning have waned in such circumstances.

The President, on the other hand, stated that his administration would continue to ensure the safety of schools.