UNICEF Commends Tinubu Administration Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren
By Fact Harbour News
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commended the Federal Government following the successful rescue of schoolchildren abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the operation as a significant step toward protecting the rights and safety of children.
In a statement reacting to the development, UNICEF welcomed the rescue of the pupils and their teachers after weeks in captivity, while acknowledging the efforts of the security agencies involved in the operation.
The organisation praised the coordinated efforts of the Nigerian security agencies, saying the safe return of the victims underscores the importance of collaboration among relevant authorities in responding to incidents involving children.
UNICEF also recognised the commitment of the Tinubu administration to ensuring the safety of schoolchildren and reaffirmed the importance of protecting educational institutions from attacks that disrupt learning and expose children to physical and psychological harm.
According to the agency, every child has the right to learn in a safe and secure environment without fear of violence, abduction, or intimidation. It noted that attacks on schools not only endanger lives but also affect children’s education, emotional well-being, and future opportunities.
The rescue operation followed weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated security efforts involving multiple agencies, leading to the safe recovery of the abducted pupils and teachers. Authorities have stated that investigations are continuing, with efforts underway to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the kidnapping.
UNICEF encouraged both the Federal Government and state governments to continue strengthening measures aimed at safeguarding schools, preventing future attacks, and improving security around educational institutions across the country.
The organisation also called for continued psychosocial support, counselling, and medical care for the rescued pupils and teachers to aid their recovery and reintegration into normal school life following their ordeal.
Security experts have described the rescue as a positive development in Nigeria’s efforts to combat kidnapping and improve the protection of schools, while stressing the need for sustained investment in intelligence gathering, community policing, and school security initiatives.
The successful operation has been welcomed by parents, education stakeholders, traditional leaders, and civil society organisations, many of whom have urged the government to maintain the momentum in addressing insecurity affecting schools and communities.
UNICEF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote children’s rights, access to quality education, and the protection of learners from violence and conflict. The agency expressed optimism that continued collaboration between government, security agencies, communities, and development partners would strengthen efforts to ensure that every Nigerian child can learn in a safe and secure environment.
Fact Harbour News will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates on efforts to enhance school safety and child protection across Nigeria.