President Bola Tinubu has assured families of children kidnapped in parts of Nigeria that the government is still working to bring them home safely.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that in a statement released to mark the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, the President said this year’s theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” serves as a reminder that children are at the centre of the nation’s future and must be protected at all times.
Tinubu said the day, which also falls during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, is painful for some families in Oyo and Borno states because some children and teachers are still being held by kidnappers.
According to him, while many families are celebrating, others are living in fear and sadness as they wait for the return of their loved ones.
The President told the affected children, parents and teachers that the government has not forgotten them.
He added that authorities would continue rescue efforts until those abducted are safely reunited with their families and those behind the crimes face punishment.
Tinubu revealed that he has instructed security agencies to continue and increase rescue operations across the country.
He said the operations must be carefully planned with proper intelligence gathering to ensure the safe return of abducted children and other vulnerable citizens.
He also announced fresh steps to improve safety in schools located in dangerous areas.
According to him, the government will carry out new checks to identify schools at risk, improve cooperation between state governments and security agencies, and strengthen communication between schools and local security units.
He added that local communities would also play a bigger role through early warning systems.
The President directed the Federal Ministry of Education and state governments to fully implement the Safe Schools framework.
He said schools in vulnerable areas must understand how to respond quickly during emergencies, including knowing who to contact and where children should be moved when danger appears.
Tinubu also spoke about the condition of children rescued from kidnappers and violent attacks. He said government support should not stop after their release.
According to him, affected children must receive proper medical care, counselling, education and support to help them return to normal life.
The President added that protecting children should not be left to the government alone.
He called on parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, transport unions, vigilantes and the media to work together in protecting schools and communities.
He warned that ignoring suspicious activities around schools could place children in danger.
He added that sharing information quickly with security agencies can help prevent attacks and save lives.
Tinubu said his administration remains committed to building a country where children can study safely, stay healthy and pursue their dreams without fear.
He noted that the government is investing in education, healthcare, nutrition, social welfare, digital skills and safer communities to improve the lives of Nigerian children.