UNICEF Commends Tinubu Government Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren

UNICEF Commends Tinubu Government Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has praised the Federal Government for the successful rescue of 39 abducted pupils and five teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, while also commending First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her advocacy and interventions aimed at improving the welfare of women and children across Nigeria.

The commendation was made by UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell, during a courtesy visit by a UNICEF delegation to the First Lady at the State House in Abuja.

Russell described the rescue of the abducted schoolchildren as a significant achievement, noting that protecting children affected by conflict, violence and abductions remains a global priority for the UN agency.

"I think investing in women and children is an investment in the future of the nation," she said, reaffirming UNICEF's commitment to supporting Nigeria's efforts to safeguard vulnerable children.

According to her, children are often the greatest victims of conflict, whether through displacement, violence or abduction, stressing that governments must continue to prioritise their protection.

She also lauded Senator Tinubu's leadership through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), particularly her support for child welfare, women's empowerment and birth registration.

Russell noted that Nigeria recorded a remarkable increase in birth registration, with about 14 million children registered within two years, attributing the achievement in part to the First Lady's sustained advocacy through the Renewed Hope Initiative.

She further praised Senator Tinubu for her role in campaigns against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), describing the initiatives as vital investments in the country's future.

Responding, the First Lady expressed delight over the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers and appreciated UNICEF for standing with Nigeria during difficult periods.

She said her office has continued to partner with UNICEF mainly in advocacy, complementing the efforts of relevant government ministries.

Senator Tinubu stressed that investing in children is essential to national development, noting that no country can achieve sustainable growth without giving adequate attention to the welfare and education of its young population.

Drawing from her background in education, she reiterated her commitment to promoting policies and programmes that improve children's access to quality education.

The First Lady also highlighted the challenge of Nigeria's growing number of out-of-school children, particularly Almajiri children, saying the Federal Government is exploring measures to integrate them into formal education through specialised schools alongside vocational and skills acquisition programmes.

The UNICEF delegation included the Country Representative, Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef; Chief of Staff, Ted Mary; Senior Adviser, Communication, Marlene Jensen; Head of Project, Marline Serrano; and Executive Specialist, Nabila Jamshed.