Children’s Day: Tinubu orders tougher security around schools

President Bola Tinubu has directed the strengthening of security measures in schools located in vulnerable parts of the country as part of efforts to protect children from abduction and violence.

Tinubu gave the directive in his Children’s Day message issued on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.

The president, who expressed concern over rising threats facing schoolchildren in parts of Nigeria, said the federal government would introduce updated school vulnerability mapping, improve coordination between security agencies and state governments, and establish rapid response systems for schools in high-risk communities.

Tinubu stated: “I have directed all relevant security agencies to sustain and intensify coordinated rescue operations for abducted children and other vulnerable citizens across the country. These operations must be intelligence-led, carefully executed and focused on the safe recovery of our children.

“I have also directed the strengthening of school protection measures in high-risk areas. This will include updated school vulnerability mapping, closer coordination between state governments and security commands, rapid response links between schools and local security units, and stronger community-based early warning systems.”

Children’s Day: Alausa hosts children, honours disability advocate in Abuja

He disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Education had also been mandated to deepen implementation of the Safe Schools framework to ensure schools are adequately prepared to respond to security threats.

According to him, schools in vulnerable areas must clearly understand emergency procedures and communication channels during attacks or security breaches.

Tinubu stressed that protecting children requires collective responsibility, urging community leaders, parents, teachers, transport unions and local vigilantes to support efforts aimed at safeguarding schools and children.

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

The president maintained that his administration would continue to strengthen collaboration between communities and security agencies to prevent attacks before they occur.

He added that the government remained committed to ensuring every Nigerian child can pursue education in a safe and secure environment.