Niger School Abductions: Ribadu Promises Swift Rescue, Cites US, UK, France Support

National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has reaffirmed that the Federal Government enjoys strong international support in its fight against terrorism, stating that countries such as the United States, France, and the United Kingdom are already providing technical assistance to Nigeria.

Ribadu gave the assurance on Monday during a visit to Kontagora, Niger State, where he met with Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese and proprietor of St. Michael’s Catholic School, as well as parents of over 200 abducted children.

The NSA, who was accompanied by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bernard Doro; DSS Director-General, Oluwatosin Ajayi; and the Chairman of CAN (Northern Region), Joseph Hayab, told the anxious families that President Bola Tinubu remained deeply concerned and had directed security agencies to prioritise the rescue of the children.

“This is a painful period for all of us,” Ribadu said after listening to emotional accounts from parents. “But I want to assure you: we will rescue your children. The President has ordered that everything necessary must be done.”

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Ribadu further disclosed that President Tinubu had suspended official engagements, including a scheduled trip, to focus on the situation. He said security operations had been intensified and reassured the community that international partners are standing firmly with Nigeria.

“The whole world stands with us. This evil will not prevail. Your children will come back safely. That is our solemn promise,” he said.

He commended Bishop Yohanna for his resilience and leadership, noting that global collaboration is already strengthening Nigeria’s counter-terrorism response.

Earlier, the Bishop expressed gratitude for the federal delegation’s visit, stating that it had restored hope to traumatised families. Sources confirmed that a brief closed-door meeting followed, during which church authorities and parents presented detailed reports on the abduction and its emotional toll on the community.

Notably, Niger State Government officials were absent during the visit. Although no official reason was given, the absence may be linked to Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago’s stance that no students were abducted, claiming the children fled into the bush due to gunshots and would soon emerge from hiding. The governor also disputed the number of missing children released by the school, accusing the management of rushing out figures.

Since the incident occurred, state officials have not visited the school, maintaining a position largely at odds with accounts from parents, church authorities, and federal security agencies.

Niger School Abductions: Ribadu Promises Swift Rescue, Cites US, UK, France Support