Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to securing the release of abducted children across the country, particularly those recently kidnapped in Oyo and Borno states.
In a statement issued to mark the 2026 International Children’s Day celebration, the President said while many children were celebrating the occasion, some families and teachers were living in pain and uncertainty following the abduction of schoolchildren by criminal groups.
“As a father and your President, you are not forgotten. You are not abandoned,” Tinubu stated.
The President pledged that the Federal Government would continue to intensify efforts until all abducted children were safely returned and those responsible brought to justice.
According to him, all relevant security agencies have been directed to sustain and strengthen coordinated rescue operations across the country, particularly in areas vulnerable to attacks on schools and communities.
Tinubu also ordered the reinforcement of school protection measures in high-risk areas through improved school vulnerability mapping, stronger collaboration between state governments and security agencies, rapid emergency response systems, and enhanced community-based early warning structures.
“The fight to protect children must begin before an attack happens, not after one has already occurred,” he said.
The President stressed that safeguarding children should not be left to government alone, urging parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, vigilantes, transport unions, and the media to remain vigilant and promptly share information capable of preventing attacks.
“When a community sees strange movement around a school and keeps quiet, a child is placed at risk. When warning signs are ignored, families suffer. When information is shared quickly and responsibly, lives can be saved,” he added.
Tinubu further directed the Federal Ministry of Education and state governments to deepen implementation of the Safe Schools framework to ensure schools in vulnerable communities are equipped with clear emergency procedures and response mechanisms.
The President also promised continued support for children affected by violence, abduction, and displacement, including access to medical care, counselling, education, and reintegration services after rescue.
Highlighting the theme of this year’s celebration, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” Tinubu said every Nigerian child deserves equal access to education, healthcare, nutrition, safety, and opportunities regardless of background or social condition.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in education, healthcare, social protection, digital skills, and safer communities, insisting that childhood should never become a privilege reserved for only a few Nigerians.
“To our children, you matter — your dreams matter; your safety matters. Your education matters,” the President stated.