National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu said yesterday that the United States, France and the United Kingdom are already giving Nigeria technical assistance in its fight against terrorism. Ribadu spoke in Kontagora, Niger State, during a visit to the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Northern Region, Bishop Bulus Yohanna, and to parents of pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic School in Papiri.
He told the gathering at St. Michael’s Catholic Cathedral that President Bola Tinubu is “deeply troubled” by the abduction and has ordered security agencies to use every available resource to secure the children’s safe return. “This is a painful period for all of us, but I want to assure you: we will rescue your children. The President is deeply concerned and has directed that everything necessary must be done,” Ribadu said.
Accompanied by Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Bernard Doro, Department of State Services Director‑General Oluwatosin Ajayi, and CAN Northern Region Chairman Joseph Hayab, Ribadu said operations to free the pupils have been intensified. He conveyed President Tinubu’s message of solidarity, noting that the President has suspended official engagements—including a scheduled trip—to focus on the crisis.
Ribadu emphasized that the federal government will take full responsibility for restoring security in the affected communities and thanked Bishop Yohanna for his calm leadership during a period of intense anxiety. “The whole world stands with us. This evil will not prevail. Your children will come back safely. That is our solemn promise,” he added, and pledged that rescue efforts will continue until the children are reunited with their families.
Earlier, Bishop Yohanna expressed gratitude for the government’s visit, saying it had renewed hope among families traumatized by the attack and demonstrated the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens.
Northern governors have approved state police and ordered a suspension of mining activities to address insecurity.
Government officials have outlined steps to improve security and protect the nation’s future.
Officials have assured that the abducted Catholic school pupils will be returned “soon.”
A closed‑door meeting followed the public session, during which church authorities submitted a report on the incident and representatives of the school and parents described how the abduction occurred and its emotional impact on the community
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