Anxiety continues to grow among parents and education stakeholders following the abduction of schoolchildren and their teachers, but the Nigeria Police Force says efforts are ongoing to secure their release.
The South-West Coordinating Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, has assured Nigerians that security agencies are working to bring the victims home safely.
Speaking during a visit to the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja, Fayoade said the rescue operation remains a priority and involves collaboration among relevant security agencies and government authorities.
His assurance comes at a time when concerns over school safety have again returned to the spotlight, with many parents questioning the security of learners across the country.
Fayoade said the focus of security operatives remains the safe recovery of the abducted students and teachers.
He declined comments on reports of ransom demands, maintaining that police efforts are centred on rescue operations.
The police chief also used the occasion to highlight ongoing efforts to strengthen security operations through improved intelligence gathering and the use of technology.
He noted that the force is expanding the use of digital tools, including artificial intelligence and centralised data systems, to improve investigations and respond more effectively to security threats.
Fayoade acknowledged challenges such as manpower shortages and logistics but said recruitment exercises and other interventions are underway to strengthen policing across the country.
For many families, however, the immediate concern remains the fate of the abducted children and their teachers.
The incident has once again renewed calls for stronger security measures around schools, particularly as education stakeholders continue to advocate safer learning environments for students nationwide.
Parents and school communities are now awaiting further updates, hoping for the safe return of the victims in the coming days.
