A wave of fear and sorrow has swept through Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State, following the mysterious disappearance of a 19-year-old nursing student identified as Aisha Ibrahim. The young woman, who hails from Gombe State, was last seen in Calabar before she was reported missing by her family, sparking growing concern across the student community and beyond.
According to reports, Aisha was pursuing her nursing studies in Calabar before her sudden disappearance. Her family, who described her as a quiet, intelligent, and focused young lady, has made a passionate appeal to the public and authorities to help locate her.
Family’s Emotional Appeal for Help
Aisha’s disappearance has thrown her family into turmoil. Her relatives expressed deep worry over her safety, revealing that all efforts to reach her through calls and messages have proven futile.
Speaking through a family representative, they called on members of the public, especially residents of Calabar and its environs, to come forward with any useful information that could lead to her discovery. The family also urged the security agencies to intensify their search and investigation into the incident.
“We are pleading with anyone who may have seen Aisha or knows her whereabouts to please reach out. We are extremely worried; she is just 19 and has never stayed away from home without notice,” the family member said tearfully.
Campus and Student Community in Shock
The news of Aisha’s disappearance has triggered widespread concern within the student community. Fellow students, friends, and colleagues described her as a diligent and respectful young woman who had dreams of becoming a professional nurse.
Her classmates have reportedly launched informal search efforts, distributing her photograph and physical description across social media platforms and local networks in Calabar. Many students have expressed fear over the growing number of safety-related incidents affecting students in Nigerian cities.
“It’s heartbreaking. Aisha is a kind person. She doesn’t keep late nights, and she’s very focused on her studies. We just hope she’s safe wherever she is,” one of her classmates shared.
Growing Safety Concerns in Calabar
This latest incident has once again brought attention to the increasing concerns about student safety in Calabar and other urban areas. Over the past few years, there have been several reports of students going missing or facing harm due to poor security, inadequate lighting, unsafe transport systems, and environmental hazards such as open drainages.
In 2023, a similar tragedy occurred when a nursing student lost her life after being swept away by floodwaters during heavy rainfall in Calabar. Many residents and student groups have since called on the government to enhance security measures and improve urban infrastructure to protect lives.
Authorities and Police Response
While details remain unclear, reports indicate that the family has already lodged a missing-person report with the Cross River State Police Command. The police have assured the public that investigations are ongoing to uncover the circumstances surrounding Aisha’s disappearance.
A police spokesperson, who confirmed that the case is under active investigation, urged members of the public to remain calm and report any useful information that could aid the search.
“We have received the report, and our officers are working with all available information to trace the missing person. We urge anyone with credible leads to come forward,” the statement read in part.
Public Reactions and Online Campaigns
The story of Aisha Ibrahim’s disappearance has rapidly gained attention on social media platforms, where students, human rights advocates, and concerned Nigerians are demanding swift action from the authorities.
The hashtag #FindAishaIbrahim has begun circulating online, with many users sharing her photo and appealing to the public for assistance. Online commentators have emphasized the urgent need for stronger campus security systems, safe accommodation for students, and better communication channels between institutions and local law enforcement.
Emotional Toll on Family and Peers
Aisha’s mother, reportedly inconsolable since her daughter went missing, expressed the family’s anguish, saying that every moment without news feels like an eternity. Her father, while pleading for help, appealed to Nigerians’ sense of humanity and solidarity to help bring his daughter home safely.
“We are not giving up. We believe someone somewhere knows something. We just want our daughter back alive,” he said.
The family also thanked well-wishers and student associations that have shown support and empathy during the difficult period.
Nursing Association Calls for Action
The Nigerian Universities Nursing Students Association (NUNSA) has also expressed concern over the incident. In a statement, the association condemned the rising cases of insecurity affecting nursing students nationwide and urged the government and relevant authorities to prioritize student welfare.
They further advised students, especially those in urban areas, to remain vigilant, avoid late movements, and always keep close contact with trusted friends and family.
What Nigerians Can Do to Help
Authorities and concerned citizens have emphasized that the quickest way to help is by sharing Aisha’s information through verified channels. Anyone with credible information is encouraged to contact the nearest police station or relevant family representatives.
It is also a reminder to everyone especially students to stay alert, move in groups when necessary, and ensure their close contacts are aware of their movements.
