The Kaduna State Government has announced the release of the 287 schoolchildren kidnapped from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State after 16 days in captivity.
The state governor, Senator Uba Sani, who made the disclosure on Sunday in a statement he signed and released to newsmen, commended President Bola Tinubu, and the Nigerian Army for their roles in ensuring the return of the abducted Kuriga schoolchildren.
It would be recalled that terrorists had early on Thursday morning March 7, stormed LGEA Primary School, Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State and kidnapped scores of pupils and teachers at about 8:20 am immediately after the morning assembly.
However, in a statement, Sani specially thanked President Bola Tinubu, NSA Nuhu Ribadu and the Nigeria Army for the release of the Kuriga pupils and students.
The statement reads:
“In the name of Allah the Beneficient, 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.”
Governor Sani is expected to receive the students shortly in Kaduna.
At the time of filing this report, it could not be ascertained wether ransom was paid for their release or not.
