President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies and relevant government ministries to strengthen protection measures for schools located in high-risk areas across Nigeria.
The President gave the directive on Wednesday in his message commemorating the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.
Tinubu’s statement comes amid growing concern over recent attacks and abductions involving schoolchildren and teachers in parts of Oyo and Borno states.
According to the President, the Federal Government will intensify efforts to rescue abducted children and vulnerable citizens currently being held by kidnappers and criminal groups.
“As we mark this special day, some Nigerian children and their teachers should be with their families but are being held captive by criminals,” Tinubu said.
The President assured affected families that the victims have not been forgotten and promised that security agencies are working to secure their safe return.
“You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned,” he added.
Tinubu further disclosed that all relevant security agencies have been directed to intensify intelligence-driven rescue operations focused on bringing the abducted children home safely.
“These operations must be intelligence-led and carefully executed,” the President stated.
As part of new safety measures, Tinubu also ordered the strengthening of school protection systems in vulnerable communities across the country.
According to him, the measures will include updated school vulnerability mapping, closer collaboration between state governments and security agencies, and the establishment of rapid emergency response systems for schools.
The President explained that schools in high-risk areas must know exactly what to do during emergencies and who to contact for immediate assistance.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He also directed the Federal Ministry of Education to work closely with state governments in implementing the Safe Schools framework nationwide.
Tinubu stressed that children rescued from violence, kidnapping, or traumatic experiences must receive proper rehabilitation, counselling, medical care, and support to help them recover fully.
“A child who returns from trauma must return to care, education, and dignity,” he stated.
The President also called on parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community groups, and the media to support ongoing efforts aimed at protecting Nigerian children.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving education, healthcare, nutrition, social protection, and safer communities for children across the country.
The statement follows recent attacks in Borno and Oyo states where more than 80 schoolchildren were reportedly abducted between May 13 and May 15, 2026.
The incidents sparked nationwide outrage after reports emerged that a mathematics teacher and other victims lost their lives during the attacks and rescue attempts.
Tinubu’s remarks have since generated reactions online, with many Nigerians calling for stronger action to secure schools and protect children from rising insecurity.
Source: President Bola Tinubu’s 2026 Children’s Day message.
