President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has broken his silence over the abduction of children in Nigeria, issuing a fresh order for intensified rescue efforts. In a Children's Day message released on Wednesday, May 27, the President assured Nigerians that no child held captive by criminals has been forgotten.
Tinubu Speaks on Abducted Children
Tinubu acknowledged that the joyous occasion of Children's Day, which coincided with Eid al-Kabir, was overshadowed for families whose children and teachers remain in captivity, particularly in Oyo and Borno states. He expressed deep sympathy for affected families and reassured them of the government's commitment to securing the safe return of the victims.
"As we mark this special day, some Nigerian children and their teachers in Oyo and Borno should be with their families, but are being held captive by criminals. 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 stated.
He added, "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."
Security Agencies Ordered to Intensify Rescue Efforts
Tinubu disclosed that he has directed security agencies to sustain and strengthen coordinated rescue operations nationwide. He emphasized that these operations must be intelligence-led and focused on the safe recovery of abducted children and vulnerable citizens.
"I have directed all relevant security agencies to sustain and intensify coordinated rescue operations for abducted children and other vulnerable citizens across the country. These operations must be intelligence-led, carefully executed and focused on the safe recovery of our children," he said.
Fresh School Protection Measures Announced
The President also announced new directives aimed at strengthening school security in vulnerable communities. The government will improve school vulnerability mapping, strengthen coordination between state authorities and security agencies, and establish rapid emergency response systems for schools in high-risk areas.
Tinubu instructed the Federal Ministry of Education to deepen the implementation of the Safe Schools framework across the country. "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 stated.
FG Promises Support for Rescued Children
The President assured Nigerians that rescued victims will receive adequate rehabilitation and reintegration support. He emphasized that the government's responsibility does not end with rescue operations alone.
"A child who returns from trauma must return to care, medical attention, counselling, education and dignity," Tinubu said. He added that relevant ministries and agencies have been directed to ensure proper care and long-term support for children affected by abduction, violence and displacement.
Citizens Urged to Support Child Protection Efforts
Tinubu called on parents, community leaders, teachers, transport unions, vigilantes and the media to actively support efforts aimed at protecting children. He stressed that security agencies alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of child protection without community cooperation.
"The fight to protect children must begin before an attack happens, not after one has already occurred," the President stated. He urged Nigerians to promptly report suspicious movements around schools and communities to help prevent attacks and safeguard children nationwide.
