Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has described the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as proof of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to protecting Nigerians and keeping schools safe.
In a statement issued on Saturday through his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Ikharo Attah, Alausa praised President Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and the nation’s security agencies for their coordinated efforts, which led to the safe rescue of the victims.
The minister described the operation as a major victory against criminality and a reflection of the growing collaboration between the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and security agencies.
“The successful rescue of these innocent children and their teachers is a moment of great relief for the nation. It reflects the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to protect the lives of Nigerians,” Alausa said.
He congratulated President Tinubu on the successful operation and commended Governor Makinde for supporting the rescue efforts from the beginning.
Alausa also applauded the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies for their professionalism, courage and teamwork during the operation.
“Their collective efforts have restored hope to the affected families and reassured Nigerians that our institutions remain resolute in confronting criminality,” he added.
The minister sympathised with the rescued pupils, teachers and their families over the trauma they experienced during their weeks in captivity and prayed for their full physical and psychological recovery.
He reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to improving school security across the country through continued collaboration with relevant stakeholders under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Alausa also urged parents, school authorities and communities to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with credible information to help keep schools safe.
The rescue of the victims followed a coordinated operation involving the Armed Forces, DSS, Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies after weeks of captivity.
Source: Statement by the Federal Ministry of Education.
