The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has commended the Oyo State Government and the nation’s security forces for their role in the safe release of pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.
Alausa who spoke through his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Ikharo Attah also congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful rescue operation, describing it as a clear demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to the safety and wellbeing of every Nigerian child.
He said the President’s leadership ensured that no effort was spared until the victims regained their freedom.
Alausa specifically lauded the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the Oyo State Government for their cooperation with relevant security agencies, sustained support for the rescue efforts, and commitment to the welfare, rehabilitation and safe reintegration of the rescued pupils and teachers with their families.
The Minister further applauded the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and all security and intelligence agencies involved in the operation for their professionalism, courage, coordination and sacrifice.
He noted that their efforts led to the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers and the arrest of the perpetrators without harm to the victims.
“The safe release of these innocent children and their teachers brings great relief to the nation. It reflects the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to protect the lives of Nigerians and shows the growing effectiveness of collaboration between the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and our security agencies,” he said.
Alausa expressed sympathy to the pupils, teachers and their families for the trauma they endured during captivity, and prayed for their speedy physical and psychological recovery.
He reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to working with stakeholders to strengthen the safety and security of schools nationwide, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Minister also urged communities, parents, school authorities and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies to ensure that schools remain safe environments for teaching and learning.
(The Whistler)