President Bola Tinubu has promised the safe return of schoolchildren abducted in Oyo and Borno states.
In his 2026 Children’s Day message, the President assured parents and teachers that the children in captivity would not be abandoned.
Tinubu said he had directed security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and strengthen protection around schools in high-risk areas across the country.
He said some families could not celebrate Children’s Day because their children and teachers were still being held by criminals.
“To those children, their parents and teachers, I say this as a father and President: you are not forgotten. You are not abandoned,” he said.
The President also directed the Federal Ministry of Education and state governments to improve the Safe Schools framework and strengthen early warning systems around vulnerable schools.
He said children rescued from abduction must receive proper care, counselling and support to return to normal life.
Tinubu urged parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and local communities to support efforts to protect children and report suspicious movements around schools.
He added that his administration would continue to invest in education, healthcare and safer communities to give every child a better future.
Meanwhile, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, urged children to stay focused and make responsible choices.
She said the future children desire depends on the decisions they make today.
“Our children are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are active participants in shaping our present,” she said.
Deji Elumoye
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