The Save the Future of Children Initiative (SAFIN) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and state governments to intensify efforts toward rescuing abducted school children, teachers, and other victims of insecurity across Nigeria.
In a press statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Chief Executive Officer, Oyedeji Olufemi, the child rights advocacy organisation expressed deep concern over the persistent insecurity in the country, particularly the increasing cases of abductions involving school children, teachers, and attacks on communities.
While commending the Federal Government and security agencies for their ongoing efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and violent crimes, SAFIN said it remained disturbed by the continued captivity of school children and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State since May 15, 2026.
The organisation noted that the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the victims’ safety poses serious threats to child protection, access to education, and the wellbeing of affected communities.
SAFIN appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to sustain and strengthen efforts aimed at securing the immediate rescue and safe return of the abducted victims.
The group also urged relevant authorities to accelerate rescue operations for other kidnapped persons across the country, including the reported 176 persons abducted in Woro community of Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.
According to SAFIN, Nigeria already has policy frameworks designed to protect schools from attacks, including the National Policy on Safety, Security and Violence-Free Schools and the Safe School Minimum Standards developed in 2021.
However, the organisation observed that implementation of the frameworks has remained slow and limited.
The group therefore called on the President to direct the Federal Ministry of Education and other relevant agencies to coordinate the immediate nationwide implementation of the policies across states and local governments to strengthen school safety and reduce vulnerabilities.
As part of its recommendations, SAFIN advocated the establishment of a Multi-Stakeholder Community Security Taskforce in all 774 local government areas of the country.
The proposed structure, it said, should involve community leaders, Divisional Police Officers, traditional rulers, youth representatives, women groups, and other stakeholders to enhance community surveillance, strengthen early warning systems, and facilitate prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
The organisation stressed that while government has the constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property, communities must also play active roles in promoting vigilance, supporting lawful reporting mechanisms, and creating safer environments for children and families.
SAFIN further expressed solidarity with families of abducted school children, teachers, and other victims of insecurity, while praying for their safe return.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children’s rights and called for urgent and sustainable measures to tackle kidnapping, banditry, and attacks on educational institutions and communities across Nigeria.
Read full statement 👇
