The Kaduna State Government has announced the release of the 287 schoolchildren kidnapped from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State, after 16 days in captivity.
Governor Senator Uba Sani, in a statement released on Sunday, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Army for their roles in securing the children’s return.
“I wish to announce that our Kuriga school children have been released. Our special appreciation goes to our dear President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for prioritizing the safety and security of Nigerians and particularly ensuring that the abducted Kuriga school children are released unharmed,” the statement read.
Governor Sani also commended the bravery and commitment of the Nigerian Army officers involved in the rescue operation.
“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,” he stated.
The schoolchildren, who were from Government Secondary School and LEA Primary School in Kuriga, were abducted on March 7, 2024, by thugs and taken into the forest. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of N1 billion, setting a deadline of March 27, 2024, for its payment.
