Tinubu hails release of 100 Niger students, orders rescue of others

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded Nigeria’s security agencies for securing the release of 100 students abducted from Papiri Catholic School in Niger State, while directing them to intensify efforts to free the remaining 115 students and their teachers still in captivity.

In a statement issued on Monday, the President expressed relief over the safe return of the first batch of students, commending Governor Umar Bago and the security operatives who facilitated their rescue following the November 21 abduction.

“I rejoice with Governor Umar Bago and commend our security agencies for their steadfast work in ensuring the safe return of the students to their families,” President Tinubu said.

He reaffirmed his directive that all abducted students and other kidnap victims across the country must be rescued and reunited with their families without delay.

The President also assured parents that both the Federal Government and the Niger State Government are working closely to secure the release of every remaining student.

“My directive to our security forces remains that all the students and other abducted Nigerians across the country must be rescued and brought back home safely.

“We must account for all the victims,” he said.

The President further emphasized that safeguarding schools must now be a top priority, directing security agencies to work with state governments to prevent future kidnapping incidents.

“From now on, our security agencies, working with the governors, must prevent future kidnappings.

“Our children should no longer be sitting ducks for heartless terrorists intent on disrupting their education,” he added.