The Christian Reformed Church–Nigeria (CRC-N) has expressed deep concern over the rising attacks on schools across the country, describing the shutdown of many boarding institutions as a major setback to Nigeria’s educational and national development. The Church made its position known in a communiqué released at the weekend following its 161st General Church Council (Synod), held at CRC-N No. 1 Takum in Takum Local Government Area, Taraba State.
The Synod urged the Federal Government to take “decisive and tangible actions” to protect citizens from escalating insecurity, warning that persistent attacks on schools and Christian communities threaten both lives and the country’s progress.
While acknowledging some improvements in national security under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the CRC-N condemned recent attacks on Tiv communities in Takum, which reportedly resulted in the loss of lives and destruction of property. The Church praised the swift intervention of Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas and the Commander of the 6 Brigade, Jalingo, for their efforts to restore peace and security to affected areas.
The communiqué, signed by CRC-N President Rev. Dr. Isaiah Jirapye Magaji and General Secretary Rev. Joseph Agbu Ahmadu Garba, emphasized that Christians in Nigeria continue to face targeted violence, echoing similar concerns previously raised by former U.S. President Donald J. Trump, who had noted the country’s ongoing religious crises.
The Church noted that the closure of boarding schools in affected states, a measure intended to protect students from kidnappers and bandits, has disrupted learning and posed a long-term challenge to Nigeria’s education system. Boarding schools, which serve thousands of children from various regions, provide not only education but also safety, social development, and opportunities for future employment.
The CRC-N argued that persistent insecurity in educational institutions hampers national growth and increases the number of out-of-school children, a situation already critical in Nigeria. According to UNICEF and other agencies, Nigeria has one of the highest populations of out-of-school children globally, and attacks on schools exacerbate the problem.
“The attacks on schools and Christian gatherings are not isolated incidents. They form part of a broader pattern of insecurity that threatens the future of our children and the development of our nation,” the communiqué said.
The CRC-N called on the federal government to take proactive measures to protect schools, churches, and communities from bandits and violent groups. The Church stressed that government authorities must act decisively, warning that continued inaction or political complacency could embolden perpetrators and lead to more loss of lives.
The Church also criticized statements by Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, which it said appeared sympathetic to bandits, arguing that such public comments had not been adequately scrutinized by authorities. The Synod urged the government to ensure accountability and reinforce law enforcement to protect all citizens, regardless of religion or region.
“The time to act is now. The safety of our schools, communities, and churches must be a national priority,” Rev. Magaji said. “Failure to protect citizens from attacks undermines confidence in government and puts the future of our children at risk.”
Beyond security concerns, the Synod resolved to strengthen the CRC-N’s digital presence by producing Bible materials in audio, visual, and digital formats across various Nigerian languages. This initiative aims to make religious teachings more accessible in an increasingly digital world and to reach believers who cannot attend physical church services due to insecurity or distance.
The Church also approved the restructuring of Children’s Sunday School into age-based classes. The move is designed to improve discipleship, ensure a smoother transition for children into the adult congregation, and equip the next generation with moral and spiritual guidance amid societal challenges.
As the Christmas and New Year celebrations approach, the CRC-N extended warm greetings to Christians nationwide and urged believers to recommit themselves to justice, fairness, and virtuous living. The Church emphasized that religious devotion and moral responsibility remain essential for national cohesion and social stability, particularly in times of insecurity.
“The Synod encourages all Christians to live upright lives, promote peace, and contribute positively to their communities. This commitment to justice and fairness is essential for building a Nigeria that is safe and prosperous for all,” the communiqué said.
Nigeria has experienced a surge in school attacks in recent years, particularly in the North-West and North-Central regions, where armed bandits and criminal gangs frequently target boarding schools for abduction and ransom. Since the Chibok schoolgirl kidnapping in 2014, attacks on schools have become a national security concern, affecting the education of thousands of children.
In response, the federal and state governments have occasionally closed schools temporarily, deployed security forces, and implemented surveillance measures. However, advocacy groups and religious organisations have repeatedly warned that more sustainable solutions are needed, including intelligence-led operations, community policing, and political accountability.
Religious leaders argue that attacks on churches, mosques, and schools not only endanger lives but also threaten interfaith relations, social cohesion, and national development. They have called on authorities to treat insecurity as a multidimensional problem that requires urgent and coordinated action from all levels of government.
The CRC-N’s communiqué reflects growing frustration among Christian organisations over the pace of government action against violent groups. While acknowledging progress under the current administration, the Church insists that public safety must remain the top priority.
“The safety of our citizens, especially children and students, cannot be compromised,” Rev. Magaji said. “As we celebrate this season of hope and joy, we urge the government to match words with decisive action that secures schools, churches, and communities across the country.”
