Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured abducted children and their families in parts of Nigeria, especially in Oyo State and Borno State, that the government has not abandoned them.
In a statement issued to mark the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, the President acknowledged the pain of families whose children and teachers remain in captivity following attacks by terrorists and bandits.
According to Tinubu:
“To those children, their parents, and their teachers, I say this as a father and your President: you are not forgotten. You are not abandoned.”
The President noted that while many children across the country were celebrating Children’s Day and the Eid-el-Kabir season with their families, some others remained in captivity.
He promised that the Federal Government would continue rescue operations until all abducted victims were safely returned and those responsible brought to justice.
Tinubu disclosed that he had directed security agencies to intensify coordinated intelligence-led rescue missions nationwide.
He also announced plans to strengthen the Safe Schools framework through improved cooperation between security agencies and state governments, emergency response systems, vulnerability assessments for schools, and stronger community intelligence gathering.
According to the President, schools in vulnerable communities must be prepared with clear emergency procedures and communication channels in case of attacks.
Tinubu further stated that children rescued from captivity would receive rehabilitation, counselling, healthcare, education support, and reintegration assistance.
He also called on parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community groups, vigilantes, and the media to support efforts aimed at protecting schools and children across the country.
The statement comes amid rising concern over repeated school attacks and kidnappings in several parts of Nigeria, including recent incidents in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
