The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has praised President Bola Tinubu, the Oyo State Government, and Nigeria’s security agencies for securing the release of pupils and teachers who were abducted in the Oriire community of Ogbomoso, Oyo State.
In a statement released on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Ikharo Attah, the minister said the victims’ safe return highlighted the Federal Government’s firm commitment to protecting every Nigerian child and ensuring schools remain safe environments for education.
Alausa congratulated President Tinubu, describing the rescue as a notable accomplishment. He commended the President’s leadership and resolve in ensuring that every available resource was mobilised until the kidnapped pupils and teachers were freed.
He also praised Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, along with the state government, for maintaining close collaboration with security agencies during the rescue mission. He further acknowledged their dedication to the victims’ welfare, rehabilitation, and successful reunification with their families.
The minister equally commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security and intelligence agencies that participated in the operation. He credited their professionalism, bravery, and coordinated efforts with making it possible to rescue the victims safely and arrest the suspected kidnappers without causing harm to the pupils or their teachers.
“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 and demonstrates the growing effectiveness of collaboration among the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and our security agencies,” the minister said.
He added, “On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Education, I congratulate Mr. President on this important achievement. I also commend the Oyo State Government for its support and commitment throughout this difficult period, and sincerely appreciate the bravery, patriotism and tireless efforts of all the security personnel whose dedication made this rescue possible. Their collective efforts have restored hope to the affected families and reassured Nigerians that our institutions remain resolute in confronting criminality.”
Alausa expressed sympathy to the rescued pupils, teachers, and their families for the ordeal they endured while in captivity and wished them a swift physical and psychological recovery.
He reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s resolve to improve safety and security in schools across the country through continued collaboration with relevant stakeholders, in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister also called on parents, school administrators, community leaders, and other stakeholders to remain alert and continue working with the government and security agencies to protect schools from criminal threats.
