Children’s Day celebrations across Nigeria on Wednesday were overshadowed by growing concerns over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State and Borno State, as Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde and other stakeholders renewed calls for their safe return.
At least 82 pupils were abducted between May 13 and 15 during separate attacks in both states.
In Borno State, 42 pupils were kidnapped after armed groups attacked schools in Askira Uba and Chibok Local Government Areas.
Another 40 pupils were abducted in Oyo State during attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area. The incident also claimed the lives of a teacher, a motorcyclist and a security operative during rescue efforts.
In his Children’s Day message, Tinubu assured families that the abducted children and teachers had not been abandoned, promising that security agencies would continue coordinated rescue operations until all victims were safely returned.
The President also directed the strengthening of the Safe Schools framework, saying schools in vulnerable communities must have clear emergency response procedures and improved protection measures.
Governor Makinde, speaking in Ibadan during Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, said his administration was working tirelessly to reunite the abducted pupils with their families.
Religious leaders, lawmakers and civil society groups also expressed concern over the attacks.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele condemned the kidnappings, describing them as crimes against humanity, while the Nigeria Union of Teachers warned that schools in insecure areas could face closure if urgent security measures were not implemented.
The Christian Association of Nigeria described the attacks as deeply troubling, warning that continued insecurity around schools threatened the country’s future and discouraged learning.
Similarly, the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools called for stronger security coordination and nationwide implementation of Safe School measures to protect pupils and teachers.
Stakeholders also urged the Federal Government to intensify rescue operations, improve surveillance around schools and ensure adequate support for children rescued from captivity.
