President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that children abducted in parts of the country will not be forgotten, as he pledged intensified rescue operations and stronger protection for schools across vulnerable communities.

In a statement marking the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, Tinubu said his administration remained committed to ensuring that every Nigerian child could live, learn and dream in safety.

The President noted that while many children across the country were celebrating the day, some children and teachers abducted in Oyo and Borno states were still being held captive by criminal groups.

“To those children, their parents, and their teachers, I say this as a father and your President: you are not forgotten. You are not abandoned,” Tinubu said.

He added that security agencies had been directed to intensify intelligence-led rescue operations aimed at securing the safe return of abducted children and other vulnerable citizens.

According to the President, the Federal Government will also strengthen school protection measures in high-risk areas through improved vulnerability mapping, better coordination between state governments and security agencies, rapid emergency response systems and community-based early warning mechanisms.

Tinubu further directed the Federal Ministry of Education and state governments to deepen the implementation of the Safe Schools framework to improve emergency preparedness in schools located in vulnerable communities.

The President also promised better rehabilitation and reintegration support for children affected by abduction, violence and displacement, including access to medical care, counselling and education.

He called on parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, transport unions and community vigilantes to work closely with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities around schools and communities.

Speaking on the theme of this year’s Children’s Day celebration, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” Tinubu said every Nigerian child deserved equal access to education, healthcare, nutrition, social protection and opportunities for growth.

He urged children across the country to remain hopeful, assuring them that their safety, education and future remained a priority for his administration.