Tinubu thrilled by the release of abducted pupils in Kaduna and Sokoto

President Bola Tinubu expressed joy on Sunday at the release of the Kuriga schoolchildren in Kaduna State and the pupils of a Tsangaya school in Sokoto State, lauding all parties involved for their brave efforts. Tinubu’s statement, relayed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, highlighted the imperative of safe and secure learning environments in schools. The Nigerian military reported the rescue of students from LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School Kuriga in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, contradicting initial reports of the number of students abducted.

Amidst global condemnation following the March 6 abduction of at least 287 pupils, the military disclosed the rescue of 137 pupils in a joint operation with local authorities in Zamfara State. Tinubu underscored the significance of collaboration between the Federal Government and states, particularly concerning security matters. He commended the National Security Adviser, security agencies, and the Kaduna State Government for their swift response and dedication.

Tinubu assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to implementing strategies to safeguard schools as sanctuaries of learning. Despite the announced commencement of the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative in August 2023, armed groups persist in terrorizing schools in Nigeria’s north. The initiative, with a budget of N144.8bn, aims to enhance security in schools across 18 states, covering at least 48 schools in each state, as outlined by the National Coordinator of the Safe Schools Initiative, Halima Iliya.