Northern Nigeria has been forced to shut schools amid escalating bandit attacks, causing a significant surge in out-of-school children exceeding the national average. Recent incidents, including the abduction of 215 students and teachers from St Mary’s School in Niger State, have compelled federal and state authorities to close educational institutions in affected areas to safeguard students. According to UNICEF and other reports, northern states account for roughly 70 to 80 percent of Nigeria’s out-of-school children, with insecurity and banditry disrupting education and threatening children's right to learn. Bandits are increasingly violent with motives extending beyond ransom, deepening fear and trauma in local communities.The crisis is compounded by systemic governance challenges and inadequate security measures, calling for urgent, coordinated government action to protect schools and rescue abducted children. Stakeholders urge the federal government to enhance security infrastructure, engage local communities, and address socio-economic root causes fueling the violence. Protecting education in northern Nigeria remains critical to national development and stability News Article Elements:Title: "Bandit Attacks Force Northern Nigeria School Closures as Out-of-School Rates Soar Above National Average"Keywords: northern Nigeria bandit attacks, school closures northern Nigeria, out-of-school children Nigeria, insecurity affects education NigeriaMeta Description: "Insecurity from bandit attacks in northern Nigeria has forced widespread school closures, pushing out-of-school children figures above the national average. Learn about the crisis and government response."Use subheadings for clarity: "Rising Bandit Violence and School Closures," "Impact on Education and Community," "Calls for Government Action"Include authoritative statistics and quotes where possibleShort paragraphs and bullet points for readabilityInclude direct reference to affected states and numbers where verifiedMaintain freshness with current dates and recent events highlightedThis approach captures the critical facts while aligning with 2025 best practices for news content focused on clarity, authority, and relevance to enhance visibility and reader engagement �����.