President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured families of abducted children across the country that the Federal Government remains committed to securing their release and improving safety in schools.
The President gave the assurance in a personally signed statement issued to commemorate the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, which coincided with this year’s Eid-el-Kabir festivities.
Tinubu specifically referenced children and teachers abducted in parts of Oyo and Borno states, stating that the victims had not been forgotten despite the ongoing security challenges.
“As we mark this special day, which coincides with Eid-el-Kabir, some Nigerian children and their teachers in Oyo and Borno should be with their families, but are being held captive by criminals,” the President stated.
“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,” he added.
According to Tinubu, security agencies have been directed to sustain intelligence-driven rescue missions aimed at returning abducted children and other victims safely to their families.
He also disclosed that the government would strengthen protection measures in schools located in vulnerable communities through improved security coordination, early warning systems and faster emergency response structures.
The President said the Federal Ministry of Education had been instructed to deepen the implementation of the Safe Schools framework in partnership with state governments and security agencies.
“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 said.
Tinubu further promised enhanced rehabilitation and reintegration support for children rescued from abduction, displacement and violence, including access to counselling, healthcare and education.
“A child who returns from trauma must return to care, medical attention, counselling, education and dignity,” the President noted.
He also appealed to parents, community leaders, youth groups, vigilantes, religious bodies and media organisations to support efforts aimed at protecting children and sharing credible security information promptly.
“When information is shared quickly and responsibly, lives can be saved,” he stated.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to child welfare, Tinubu said the government remains focused on creating a safer environment where Nigerian children can grow, learn and pursue their ambitions without fear.
“You matter—your dreams matter; your safety matters. Your education matters,” the President said while celebrating the resilience and determination of Nigerian children despite current challenges.
