Conflict Forces 15,000 School Closures, Millions of Children Out of Class — UN Report

Conflict Forces 15,000 School Closures, Millions of Children Out of Class — UN Report

The United Nations has revealed that nearly 15,000 schools across West and Central Africa have been forced to shut down as of mid-2025, with Nigeria among the most affected countries.

According to the report, the closures stem from escalating conflicts, armed attacks, and widespread insecurity in the region. Thousands of children have been left without access to education, while many teachers have fled or been unable to continue working due to persistent violence.

The UN warned that the crisis is worsening the already fragile education systems in the region, deepening inequalities, and threatening the future of millions of young people. Nigeria, alongside Burkina Faso, Mali, Cameroon, and Niger, has recorded a sharp rise in attacks on schools, often leaving buildings destroyed and communities displaced.

Human rights groups have expressed concern that prolonged school closures could fuel child labor, early marriage, and the recruitment of young people into armed groups.

The UN and education advocates are urging governments and international partners to restore safe learning environments, provide psychosocial support for affected children, and ensure continuity of education through community learning centers and digital platforms.