“We will bring them back,” Tinubu vows on kidnapped Oyo, Borno children

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will intensify efforts to rescue children and teachers still being held captive by criminals across the country, declaring that the government will not abandon victims of abduction and insecurity.

In a statement issued to commemorate the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, the President expressed concern over the plight of abducted children in parts of the country, particularly in Oyo and Borno states, where some pupils and teachers are reportedly still in captivity.

Tinubu, who described Nigerian children as “the pride of the Republic” and custodians of the nation’s future, said the celebration was not only a moment of joy but also a period for national reflection on the safety, welfare and future of children.

The President noted that this year’s Children’s Day theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” underscores the need to create equal opportunities and protection for every child irrespective of background or circumstance.

“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,” Tinubu said.

“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.’”

Addressing abducted children, their families and teachers directly, the President said: “You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned.”

Tinubu assured grieving families that the government would continue to pursue the safe return of kidnapped children and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

“To the families grieving and despondent, your government will not turn your pain into ceremony. We will continue to work until children taken from their homes, schools and communities are returned safely, and until those who profit from this cruelty are brought to justice,” he stated.

The President disclosed that he had directed all relevant security agencies to intensify intelligence-driven rescue operations aimed at securing the release of abducted children and other vulnerable citizens.

According to him, the operations must be “carefully executed and focused on the safe recovery of our children.”

Tinubu also announced fresh directives aimed at strengthening security around schools, especially in vulnerable communities.

He said the measures would include updated school vulnerability mapping, improved coordination between state governments and security agencies, rapid emergency response systems for schools and stronger community-based early warning mechanisms.

“The Federal Ministry of Education, working with state governments, is to deepen the implementation of the Safe Schools framework with clear reporting, clear responsibility and clear timelines,” he said.

“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.”

Beyond rescue efforts, the President stressed the importance of rehabilitation and reintegration for children affected by abduction, violence and displacement.

“Rescue is not the end of the government’s duty. A child who returns from trauma must return to care, medical attention, counselling, education and dignity,” he stated.

Tinubu added that relevant ministries and agencies had been directed to ensure proper reintegration support for rescued children.

The President further called on parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, transport unions, local vigilantes and the media to collaborate with security agencies in protecting children and preventing attacks on schools and communities.

“When warning signs are ignored, families suffer. When information is shared quickly and responsibly, lives can be saved,” he said.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to child welfare, Tinubu said the government would continue investing in education, healthcare, nutrition, social protection, digital skills and safer communities.

“My administration remains committed to a Nigeria where every child can learn safely, grow in good health, eat well, access opportunity and dream without fear,” the President said.

“To our children, you matter, your dreams matter; your safety matters; your education matters. Your future matters to this government and to this nation, and we will safeguard it.”