The 287 schoolchildren abducted by terrorists in Kaduna State on March 7 have regained their freedom, the state Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has announced.
Governor Sani disclosed this in a statement issued in the early hours of Sunday.
Terrorists had on March 7 invaded LGEA Primary School, Kuriga in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State and abducted over 200 pupils and teachers immediately after the morning assembly session.
Governor Sani's statement did not give details of how the schoolchildren regained their freedom.
The governor however thanked President Bola Tinubu for ensuring that the children were released unharmed.
Governor Sani also thanked the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for coordinating the strategies and operations of security agencies which resulted in the freedom of the children.
See Governor Sani's full statement below:
In the name of Allah the Beneficient, the Most Merciful, I wish to announce that our Kuriga school children have been released.
Our special appreciation goes to our dear President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for prioritizing the safety and security of Nigerians and particularly ensuring that the abducted Kuriga school children are released unharmed. While the school children were in captivity, I spoke with Mr. President several times. He shared our pains, comforted us and worked round the clock with us to ensure the safe return of the children.
Special mention must also be made of our dear brother, the National Security Adviser, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu for his exemplary leadership. I spent sleepless nights with Mal. Ribadu finetuning strategies and coordinating the operations of the security agencies, which eventually resulted in this successful outcome.
The Nigerian Army also deserves special commendation for showing that with courage, determination and commitment, criminal elements can be degraded and security restored in our communities.
We also thank all Nigerians who prayed fervently for the safe return of the school children. This is indeed a day of joy. We give Almighty Allah all the glory.
Senator Uba Sani,
Governor, Kaduna State.
March 24th, 2024.
