Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has described March 24, 2024, as a day of joy following the release of 287 schoolchildren kidnapped in the state.
Governor Sani, who announced the release of the kidnapped Kuriga schoolchildren, thanked God, President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser and the military for the efforts in securing the release of the students.
The schoolchildren, aged five to 18 were abducted on Thursday, March 7 from Kuriga primary and secondary schools in the state and the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N1 billion for their release.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu had said that no dime would be paid by his administration to kidnappers.
Governor Sani on Sunday said, “In the name of Allah the Beneficent, 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.”
