President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo and Borno states will not be abandoned in captivity, directing security agencies to strengthen protection around schools nationwide.
In a personally signed message marking the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, the President said there was an urgent need to reinforce security measures in vulnerable schools and communities across the country.
Tinubu reiterated his commitment to securing the release of abducted pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School and two other schools in Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, assuring families that no effort would be spared to rescue the victims safely.
“As we mark this special day, which coincides with Eid-el-Kabir, some Nigerian children and their teachers in Oyo and Borno should be with their families, but are being held captive by criminals,” he said.
“Some children have been forced into fear. Some parents cannot join today’s celebration because their hearts are set on one prayer: ‘Bring our children home.’”
The President assured affected families that the Federal Government remained committed to bringing the victims home safely.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
He also vowed that those responsible for the abductions would be apprehended and prosecuted.
“Your government will not turn your pain into ceremony. We will continue to work until children taken from their homes, schools and communities are returned safely, and until those who profit from this cruelty are brought to justice,” he added.
Tinubu directed security agencies to intensify intelligence-led rescue operations nationwide while also instructing the Federal Ministry of Education and state governments to strengthen implementation of the Safe Schools framework.
According to the President, schools in vulnerable areas must establish emergency response systems, including communication channels with security agencies and community-based early warning mechanisms.
“Every school in a vulnerable area must know who to call, what to do, where to move, and how to protect children when danger is identified,” he said.
He stressed that the government’s responsibility does not end with rescuing abducted children, noting that victims must receive counselling, healthcare, education, and reintegration support after their release.
“Rescue is not the end of the government’s duty. A child who returns from trauma must return to care, medical attention, counselling, education and dignity,” Tinubu said.
The President also called for national collaboration in protecting children, urging parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, transport unions, vigilantes, and the media to remain vigilant against threats to schools and children.
“The fight to protect children must begin before an attack happens, not after one has already occurred,” he warned.
Tinubu described Nigerian children as “the pride of our Republic” and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving access to education, healthcare, nutrition, digital skills, and safer communities for every Nigerian child.
