Tinubu vows rescue of abducted pupils

By Jide Olusola

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed that the Federal Government will do everything possible to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno States, saying, “No child belongs in captivity.”

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The statement was conveyed on Thursday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a national security briefing in Abuja.

Idris described the abductions as a direct attack on Nigeria’s future and educational system, adding that the president has directed all security agencies to intensify rescue operations.

He said the Armed Forces, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, National Intelligence Agency, Office of the National Security Adviser, and the National Counter-Terrorism Centre are all involved in ongoing efforts.

According to him, operations include intelligence gathering, aerial surveillance, community engagement, and search-and-rescue missions.

Idris noted that the government’s response combines military action with intelligence-led operations and broader security reforms.

He also highlighted plans for a restructured policing system through the introduction of state policing, which he said would strengthen local security and improve response to threats.

The minister added that President Tinubu is in close contact with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies to ensure the safe return of the victims.

“To the families whose children remain in captivity, your pain is our pain,” he said, assuring Nigerians that all available resources are being deployed to secure the victims’ release.