President Bola Tinubu has applauded the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies following the release of 100 students abducted from Papiri Catholic School in Niger State.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the development as a relief but stressed that government efforts must continue until all remaining abductees are rescued.
“I have been briefed on the safe return of 100 students from the Catholic School in Niger State. I rejoice with Governor Umar Bago and commend our security agencies for their steadfast work in ensuring the safe return of the students to their families since the unfortunate incident on November 21,” President Tinubu said.
The President, however, directed security operatives to intensify efforts to free the remaining 115 students and their teachers who are still in captivity.
“My directive to our security forces remains that all the students and other abducted Nigerians across the country must be rescued and brought back home safely. We must account for all the victims,” he stated.
Tinubu assured parents and guardians of the abducted children that the Federal Government is working closely with the Niger State Government to ensure the safe return of all those still held captive.
“The Federal Government will continue to work with Niger State and other states to secure our schools and make the learning environment safer and more conducive for our young ones,” the President noted.
He further charged security agencies and state governments to strengthen preventive measures to avert future abductions.
“From now on, our security agencies, working with the governors, must prevent future kidnappings. Our children should no longer be sitting ducks for heartless terrorists intent on disrupting their education and subjecting them and their parents to unspeakable trauma,” Tinubu said.
