President Bola Tinubu has directed the deployment of continuous aerial surveillance over forests in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger states to locate and rescue abducted schoolchildren. The measure follows a recent wave of kidnappings that has left families anxious and security agencies under pressure to act swiftly.
The directive aims to enhance intelligence gathering and improve coordination among security agencies in affected regions. The President emphasised that the surveillance would be conducted around the clock to ensure no hideouts of the kidnappers go undetected.
This move comes after several schoolchildren were abducted from St Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State and Government Girls Secondary School in Kebbi State. While some pupils have managed to escape or been released, many remain in captivity, prompting urgent calls for decisive action.
President Tinubu’s order is part of broader efforts to strengthen security operations in vulnerable areas, ensure the safety of children, and restore public confidence in the nation’s ability to tackle insecurity effectively. Security officials have been instructed to collaborate closely with local communities, improve ground patrols, and use the aerial surveillance data to guide rescue missions.
Authorities have reassured citizens that all necessary resources will be deployed to secure the release of abducted children and prevent further incidents, signalling a renewed commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.

