North‑East Governors Urge Stronger Safety Measures as Child Recruitment by Armed Groups Rises

Governors from several North‑East states have emphasised the importance of protecting children after reports showed a troubling increase in recruitment by armed groups in the region. Officials highlighted a series of education and youth empowerment programmes they say are key to shielding young people from being drawn into violence and extremism.

Representatives from Taraba, Borno, Gombe, Yobe, and Bauchi outlined efforts such as free basic education, improved school infrastructure, vocational training, and community support services aimed at reducing vulnerabilities that armed groups exploit. They argued that when children are engaged in school and productive activities, they are far less likely to fall prey to recruitment.

The call to action comes in the wake of data showing that over a thousand children were recruited in 2024 alone in the North‑East, prompting regional leaders to stress collaboration and preventive strategies.

Governors urged continued cooperation between state authorities, traditional leaders, security agencies, and international partners to strengthen child protection, promote learning opportunities, and keep youths safe from exploitation by violent groups.