U.S. Lawmaker Riley Moore Condemns Abduction of 25 Schoolgirls and Killing of Vice Principal in Kebbi State, Calls for Greater International Attention

U.S. lawmaker Riley Moore has condemned the abduction of 25 schoolgirls and the killing of a vice principal during a violent attack in Kebbi State, Nigeria. The tragic incident has intensified global concern over the growing wave of insecurity affecting schools across parts of northern Nigeria.

According to initial reports, armed attackers stormed the school in a manner similar to previous assaults on educational institutions in the region. The assailants abducted dozens of girls and shot the vice principal, who was reportedly attempting to protect the students. The event has left the community devastated, heightening fears among parents, teachers and local residents.

Moore, known for advocating global security and protection for vulnerable populations, expressed deep concern over the attack. He emphasized that the increasing violence against schools puts both children and educators at extreme risk while threatening long-term educational development and stability. His reaction aligns with growing international alarm over the persistent targeting of schools by armed groups seeking ransom, publicity or political leverage.

Local authorities and federal security forces in Kebbi State have intensified search operations to locate the abducted girls. Efforts are being coordinated across nearby towns, forests and routes commonly used by criminal groups. Families are anxiously awaiting information while community leaders call for cooperation with security agencies to aid rescue efforts.

The incident has renewed national debate on the need for stronger security measures in schools. Education stakeholders and security analysts continue to advocate for improved surveillance, better-equipped security personnel, reinforced school structures and emergency response systems tailored to vulnerable communities. Many argue that the recurring nature of school attacks underscores the urgent need for sustained government and international intervention.

Across Nigeria, repeated school abductions have led to severe psychological and social consequences. Many parents are reluctant to send their children to school, while teachers face increasing pressure as they balance educational responsibilities with personal safety concerns. Residents of Kebbi State fear the latest attack could further weaken the already fragile sense of safety around learning centres.

As reactions continue globally, attention remains on the safe return of the missing schoolgirls and the pursuit of the perpetrators. The killing of the vice principal has fueled demands for justice and accountability, with many calling for swift prosecution of those responsible.

The community remains united in grief and hope—mourning the loss of a dedicated educator and praying for the safe rescue of the abducted girls. International observers, including Moore, continue to stress that protecting students must be treated as a global priority.