By Joseph Erunke
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has commended President Bola Tinubu, the Oyo State Government and Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, describing the operation as a major victory against criminality and a testament to the government’s commitment to protecting schoolchildren.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Ikharo Attah, the minister said the safe rescue of the victims underscored the Federal Government’s unwavering resolve to safeguard the lives of every Nigerian child and ensure that schools remain secure places for learning.
Alausa congratulated President Tinubu on what he described as an important achievement, applauding the President’s leadership and determination to ensure that every available resource was deployed until the abducted pupils and teachers regained their freedom.
He also lauded Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the state government for working closely with security agencies throughout the rescue operation, while commending their commitment to the welfare, rehabilitation and reintegration of the victims with their families.
The minister reserved special praise for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security and intelligence agencies involved in the operation, describing their professionalism, courage and coordinated efforts as instrumental to the successful rescue of the victims and the arrest of the suspected kidnappers without harm to the children and 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.”
Expressing sympathy to the rescued pupils, teachers and their families over the trauma they suffered while in captivity, Alausa prayed for their speedy physical and psychological recovery.
He reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to strengthening the safety and security of schools nationwide through sustained collaboration with relevant stakeholders in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister also urged parents, school administrators, community leaders and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and continue supporting the efforts of government and security agencies to keep schools safe from criminal attacks.
