Tinubu Promises Safe Return of Abducted School Children on Children's Day

President Bola Tinubu has renewed his pledge for the safe return of schoolchildren recently abducted in Oyo and Borno states, assuring parents and teachers that they will not be abandoned. The President, speaking on Children's Day, emphasized his commitment as both a father and the nation's leader to secure the children's release.

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On this Children’s Day, I celebrate every Nigerian child. I celebrate the child who is excelling in school. I celebrate the child who is learning a trade. I celebrate the child living with disability and still pressing forward with courage. I celebrate the child who has lost much but has not lost hope.

Tinubu has instructed all security agencies to escalate their efforts toward the safe recovery of the abducted students. He also mandated school authorities to enhance protection measures, particularly in areas identified as high-risk. This directive aims to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of students across the country.

In a statement marking the occasion, President Tinubu celebrated Nigerian children, acknowledging their diverse strengths and aspirations. He highlighted the theme of this year's celebration, "Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child," stressing its significance for the nation's conscience and the immediate reality of the future.

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Today belongs to you. It is a day to celebrate your innocence, your strength, your creativity, your aspirations, and the immeasurable value you bring to our nation.

"Today belongs to you. It is a day to celebrate your innocence, your strength, your creativity, your aspirations, and the immeasurable value you bring to our nation," Tinubu stated. He recognized children excelling in education, trades, those living with disabilities, and those who have faced adversity but maintained hope, underscoring their importance as "custodians of tomorrow's promise."

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You are the pride of our Republic, the custodians of tomorrow’s promise, and the living reminder that we can shape the future of Nigeria by the opportunities we create for our children today.

The President's remarks came as some children and their teachers in Oyo and Borno remain in captivity, a situation casting a shadow over the Children's Day festivities. He directly addressed the affected children and their families, expressing solidarity and reaffirming the government's dedication to their safe return.

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The theme for this year’s celebration, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” speaks powerfully to the soul of our national conscience. It reminds us that the future is not a distant promise; it is already here.