All the 287 kidnapped pupils of Kuriga school, Kaduna, have been released unharmed.
The announcement was made Sunday morning by the governor of the state, Uba Sani.
Describing the release of the pupils as one of great joy, he expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu; the National Security Adviser; Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Nigerian Army and Nigerians in general.
He, however, did not state how the release of the pupils was secured.
The governor’s statement reads in full:
“In the name of Allah the Beneficient, the Most Merciful, I wish to announce that our Kuriga school children have been released.
“Our special appreciation goes to our dear President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for prioritizing the safety and security of Nigerians and particularly ensuring that the abducted Kuriga school children are released unharmed. While the school children were in captivity, I spoke with Mr. President several times. He shared our pains, comforted us and worked round the clock with us to ensure the safe return of the children.
“Special mention must also be made of our dear brother, the National Security Adviser, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu, for his exemplary leadership. I spent sleepless nights with Mal. Ribadu finetuning strategies and coordinating the operations of the security agencies, eventually resulted in this successful outcome.
“The Nigerian Army also deserves special commendation for showing that with courage, determination and commitment, criminal elements can be degraded and security restored in our communities.
“We also thank all Nigerians who prayed fervently for the safe return of the school children. This is indeed a day of joy. We give Almighty Allah all the glory.”
