President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that children abducted from schools in Oyo and Borno states will be rescued and reunited with their families, as the country marked the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.
In a message released on Tuesday, the President said the Federal Government remained committed to securing the release of the pupils and teachers still being held captive by armed groups. He described the attacks on schools as painful and unacceptable, especially at a time when children across the nation were expected to celebrate their special day in peace.
Tinubu noted that while many families gathered to celebrate Children’s Day, some parents were still living in fear and uncertainty over the whereabouts of their children. He assured the affected families that the government had not abandoned them.
“You are not forgotten. We are doing everything possible to ensure your safe return,” the President said while addressing the abducted pupils and their teachers.
The President also directed security agencies to intensify rescue operations and strengthen security around schools, particularly in communities vulnerable to attacks. According to him, his administration is working on improving intelligence gathering, emergency response systems, and collaboration between federal and state security agencies to prevent future incidents.
The recent abductions in Oyo and Borno states have once again raised concerns over the safety of schools in Nigeria. The attacks reportedly involved dozens of students who were taken by gunmen during separate invasions of learning institutions, sparking nationwide outrage and fear among parents.
Many Nigerians have compared the incidents to previous mass kidnappings in the country, including the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls and other attacks on schools over the years. Civil society groups and education advocates have continued to demand stronger protection for students and teachers, especially in rural communities frequently targeted by criminal gangs and insurgents.
Tinubu further stated that rescued victims would receive medical care, psychological support, and rehabilitation to help them recover from the trauma of captivity. He emphasized that every Nigerian child deserves to grow up in safety and have access to education without fear.
