By Gabriel Ameh
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has condemned in strong terms the abduction of 25 students of Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Kebbi State, as well as the violent attack and abduction of Christian worshippers in Eruku Town, Kwara State.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the abduction of the schoolgirls as a “reprehensible and barbaric act” that violates the fundamental rights of children to safety and education. He warned that such incidents undermine ongoing national efforts to expand access to education, especially for the girl-child in rural communities.
“No child seeking knowledge should ever be put at risk,” Issa-Onilu said. “Our schools must remain safe spaces where children can learn, develop, and dream without fear.”
Addressing the attack on Christian worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, the DG expressed deep condolences to the victims and their families, describing the incident as a senseless assault on Nigeria’s peace, unity, and long-cherished religious harmony.
He stressed that freedom of worship is a constitutional right and that any attempt to harm or intimidate citizens based on their faith is unlawful, unacceptable, and unpatriotic.
Issa-Onilu assured Nigerians that, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive, security agencies are intensifying coordinated operations and intelligence efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted schoolgirls and worshippers.
He further highlighted the Agency’s commitment to improving public awareness on security matters through its monthly National Security Briefing, which provides citizens with updates on progress made by security and regulatory agencies nationwide.
The DG urged the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely information that could help protect communities and prevent further attacks.
Paul Odenyi
Deputy Director,
Communication & Media
