The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has assured Nigerians that security forces are making sustained efforts to rescue the school pupils abducted in Oyo State, affirming that military operations remain ongoing to secure their safe release.
The Army Chief gave the assurance while addressing concerns over the fate of the abducted children, stressing that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, is actively pursuing the kidnappers and working to ensure the victims are returned to their families unharmed.
According to the Army Chief, security operatives have intensified intelligence gathering and coordinated operations in the affected areas as part of efforts to locate the abductors and bring them to justice.
He reiterated the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property, noting that the rescue mission is being carried out with caution to safeguard the lives of the victims while minimizing risks associated with such operations.
The abduction of the pupils has sparked widespread concern among residents, education stakeholders, and civil society groups, with many calling on security agencies to expedite efforts to secure the children’s release.
The incident has also renewed concerns over the security of schools and the growing threat of kidnapping for ransom in parts of the country. In recent years, several educational institutions have been targeted by armed groups, prompting calls for stronger security measures around schools and improved intelligence to prevent similar attacks.
The Army Chief appealed to members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could jeopardize ongoing security operations. He urged citizens to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence that could assist in locating the abducted pupils and apprehending those responsible.
He further assured families of the victims that every available resource was being deployed to facilitate a successful rescue, emphasizing that the welfare and safety of the children remain a top priority for the military and other security agencies involved in the operation.
Security experts have consistently stressed the importance of coordinated action among the armed forces, police, intelligence services, and local communities in tackling kidnapping and other forms of violent crime. They argue that timely intelligence and public cooperation remain critical to the success of rescue missions.
As investigations continue, authorities have yet to disclose operational details, citing security considerations. Officials say withholding certain information is necessary to avoid compromising the ongoing rescue effort.
The latest assurance from the Army Chief comes amid continued government efforts to strengthen the country’s response to kidnapping and other security threats. While families and residents await the safe return of the abducted pupils, security agencies have vowed to sustain pressure on the kidnappers until the victims are rescued and those responsible are brought to justice.
