IBADAN/Nigeria: The Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, has expressed relief over the release of teachers and pupils who were abducted in the state, describing their safe return as a major boost for the education sector and the families affected by the incident.
Adeniran said the successful rescue ended days of anxiety among education stakeholders and residents, who had closely followed developments and hoped for the victims’ safe return. He noted that the reunion of the teachers and pupils with their families was a moment worthy of gratitude and celebration.
In a statement personally signed on Friday, the OYOSUBEB chairman attributed the positive outcome to divine intervention and the collective support of Nigerians, saying the news had restored hope across schools and communities in Oyo State.
According to him, the release has brought joy to parents, teachers, classmates and education administrators who remained optimistic throughout the period of the victims’ captivity.
Adeniran also acknowledged what he described as the resilience shown by education stakeholders, noting that their steadfast faith and encouragement contributed to keeping hope alive until the victims regained their freedom.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for their commitment to the rescue efforts, while praising security agencies for what he described as their professionalism, courage and dedication in securing the release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
The SUBEB chairman further appreciated religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, media practitioners and other Nigerians who supported the affected families through prayers, advocacy and words of encouragement during the difficult period.
While celebrating the development, Adeniran stressed the need for sustained efforts to improve security around schools, saying every child and teacher deserves a safe environment for learning and teaching.
He also called for continued prayers for peace and security across the country, reaffirming the commitment of government and relevant stakeholders to strengthening measures that protect educational institutions from security threats.
“Today is a day of gratitude and renewed hope. We are delighted to welcome our teachers and pupils back safely, and we pray that such incidents never happen again,” Adeniran said.
