The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has condemned the abduction of 25 students of the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Kebbi State, as well as the violent attack and abduction of Christian worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State.
In a statement by the Agency’s Deputy Director, Communication & Media, Paul Odenyi, the Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the Kebbi school abduction as a reprehensible act that violates the fundamental rights of children to safety and education. He stressed that such incidents undermine national efforts to promote access to education, especially for the girl-child.
Issa-Onilu noted that no child seeking education should ever be placed at risk, emphasising that schools must remain safe spaces where children can learn, grow, and aspire without fear.
Reacting to the attack on Christian worshippers in Kwara State, the DG expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families, describing the incident as senseless and unacceptable. He warned that such acts threaten the peace, unity, and religious harmony Nigerians have worked hard to build.
He reiterated that freedom of worship is a fundamental right enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, adding that any attempt to harm or intimidate citizens based on their faith is unlawful and unpatriotic.
Issa-Onilu assured the public that, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive, security agencies are intensifying coordinated operations and intelligence efforts to ensure the safe and swift rescue of the abducted schoolgirls and worshippers.
Speaking on the Agency’s broader contributions to national security, he explained that the NOA’s monthly National Security Briefing is designed to keep citizens informed about progress made by security and regulatory agencies across the country.
The DG also urged Nigerians to support security agencies by providing timely and useful information that could help protect lives and prevent further attacks.
