PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has reassured the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo and Borno states that they have not been abandoned, promising that his administration will continue working towards their safe rescue.
In a personally signed Children’s Day message released on May 27, 2026, the President acknowledged the pain and anxiety experienced by affected families, especially as the celebration coincides with the Eid-el-Kabir festivities.
He said children currently in captivity, alongside their parents and teachers, remain in the thoughts of the government.
According to Tinubu, his administration remains committed to securing the release of all abducted victims and ensuring those responsible for such attacks are brought to justice.
He stressed that the government would not treat the suffering of affected families as a mere ceremonial issue, but would sustain efforts until the victims are safely reunited with their loved ones.
The President revealed that he has directed security agencies across the country to intensify coordinated rescue missions focused on abducted children and other vulnerable citizens.
He explained that the operations would be intelligence-driven and carefully managed to prioritise the safety of victims.
Tinubu also announced plans to strengthen security measures around schools located in high-risk areas.
These measures, he said, include updated assessments of vulnerable schools, improved collaboration between state governments and security agencies, faster emergency response systems, and stronger community-based early warning structures.
Speaking on the 2026 Children’s Day theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” the President described Nigerian children as the pride and future of the country.
He celebrated children excelling academically, those learning vocational skills, children living with disabilities, and others facing difficult circumstances but still holding onto hope.
The President further disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Education, alongside state governments, would intensify the implementation of the Safe Schools framework to improve emergency preparedness in vulnerable communities.
He noted that schools in insecure areas must have clear safety procedures and direct communication channels with security agencies.
Tinubu added that children rescued from abduction or violence must receive proper rehabilitation, including medical care, counselling, education, and reintegration support. He directed relevant government agencies to ensure such victims receive long-term assistance rather than temporary attention.
He also called on parents, traditional rulers, teachers, religious leaders, transport unions, youth groups, vigilantes, and the media to support efforts aimed at protecting children.
According to him, timely reporting of suspicious activities around schools could help prevent attacks and save lives.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to children’s welfare, Tinubu said the government would continue investing in education, healthcare, nutrition, social protection, digital skills, and safer communities to ensure every Nigerian child can grow and learn without fear.
Recent attacks in Oyo and Borno states have raised fresh concerns about the safety of schools across Nigeria.
In Oyo State, gunmen reportedly invaded Community High School in Ahoro-Esinele on May 15, 2026, abducting the principal, teachers, and several pupils.
A teacher was killed during the attack, while reports later indicated that another abducted teacher was beheaded.
In Borno State, armed bandits also reportedly abducted pupils from schools in Askira-Uba Local Government Area in a separate attack on the same day, heightening fears of renewed mass school abductions in the North-East.
Reacting to the incidents, the Nigeria Union of Teachers condemned the attacks, describing them as inhuman and warning that continued assaults on schools could force teachers nationwide to withdraw their services.
