Police are deployed to the site of abduction in Kagara, Niger state, Nigeria, February 18, 2021. (Photo: AFP/VNA)

Hawkins said Friday that this is a gross violation of children's rights and a horrific experience for children to go through - one which could have long-lasting effects on their mental health and well-being.

Volkan Bozkir, President of the 75th session of the UN General Assembly, said he is terribly shocked by the kidnapping. He tweeted that he hopes the girls are unharmed and will be freed soon.

317 students were abducted by gunmen who stormed an all-girls school in Jangebe town, Nigeria's northwestern state of Zamfara, a local official said. This is the 3rd mass abduction of children since December in Nigeria.