By Ngozi Nwankwo
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oyo State Government and security agencies for the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.
In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Mr. Ikharo Attah, the minister described the rescue operation as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the lives and wellbeing of schoolchildren across the country.
Alausa praised President Tinubu for his leadership and determination to ensure the victims regained their freedom, saying no effort was spared in securing their safe release.
He also lauded Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the state government for working closely with security agencies throughout the rescue operation and for supporting the welfare, rehabilitation and reintegration of the rescued pupils and teachers.
The minister further commended 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 for their professionalism, courage and coordination, which led to the safe rescue of the victims and the arrest of the suspected kidnappers without casualties.
“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,” said Alausa.
He added that the operation had restored hope to the affected families and reassured Nigerians of government’s resolve to combat criminality and safeguard citizens.
The minister expressed sympathy to the rescued pupils, teachers and their families over the trauma they experienced during their captivity, praying for their speedy physical and psychological recovery.
Alausa reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to strengthening safety and security in schools through collaboration with relevant stakeholders, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.
He also urged parents, school authorities, communities and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies to ensure schools remain safe environments for teaching and learning.
