The Federal Government has confirmed the abduction of 82 pupils and teachers in separate attacks across Oyo and Borno states between May 13 and 15. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed the figures during a national security briefing in Abuja, stating that 42 pupils were taken in Borno while 40 were kidnapped in Oyo.
The Oyo attack, which targeted three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, left three dead—including a mathematics teacher, a motorcyclist, and a security operative. Idris described the abductions as a direct assault on Nigeria’s education system and national future, emphasizing that President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to deploy all lawful measures to secure the victims’ release.
In response to the crisis, the government has authorized the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to bolster security in high-risk communities. The guards will support ongoing operations led by the Armed Forces, Department of State Services, Nigeria Police Force, and National Intelligence Agency. Aerial surveillance and intelligence-driven search-and-rescue missions are currently underway, though operational details remain classified to protect victims and personnel.
Security chiefs at the briefing insisted that recent attacks reflect pressure on insurgent groups rather than state weakness. Brigadier General Samaila Uba stated that military operations have destroyed terrorist logistics hubs and forced insurgents into previously secure areas. Meanwhile, the Office of the National Security Adviser warned against rushed interventions, stressing that hostage rescues prioritize victim safety over public pressure.
The government also announced plans to implement state policing as part of a broader security overhaul. Idris urged Nigerians to avoid narratives that could embolden terrorists, framing the crisis as a collective challenge requiring unity and credible intelligence sharing from citizens.
