The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to securing the safe return of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in recent attacks across Nigeria, stating that ongoing security operations are yielding results. The assurance was given at a special national security briefing in Abuja, where the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized that no victim would remain in captivity.
Government's Assurance
Idris described the recent wave of abductions, including incidents in Oyo State and a terrorist attack on a school in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, as deeply troubling. He confirmed that security agencies are actively tracking those responsible and that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed intensified operations, including specialized rescue teams and enhanced surveillance in vulnerable forest corridors.
New Security Measures
The minister disclosed plans to recruit 1,000 forest guards to support security operations in high-risk communities. He noted that multiple agencies, including the Armed Forces, DSS, Nigeria Police Force, NIA, Office of the National Security Adviser, and the National Counter Terrorism Centre, are jointly coordinating rescue missions and intelligence gathering.
Idris emphasized that the administration's response goes beyond military action, incorporating intelligence-led policing, technology deployment, and structural reforms such as the planned introduction of state policing. He urged citizens to remain calm and vigilant, providing credible information to security agencies while avoiding misinformation that could aid criminal groups.
Security Chiefs' Perspectives
Senior military spokesperson Brigadier General Samaila Uba stated that recent attacks reflect pressure on insurgents, not weakness. He assured that the armed forces have destroyed terrorist logistics hubs and bases, forcing many to flee to previously secure areas. He warned that anyone taking up arms against Nigeria would be tracked and neutralized.
Zakari Mijinyawa, Director of Legal Services at the Office of the National Security Adviser, explained that hostage rescue operations require careful planning to prioritize victim safety. He stressed that the objective is to save lives, not to impress, ensuring victims return safely to their families.
Ongoing Operations
The Nigeria Police Force confirmed that intelligence-led operations are ongoing nationwide, though operational details are withheld to protect personnel and victims. The Federal Government reiterated its unwavering commitment to ending attacks on schools and communities, calling for collective action against terrorism.
