Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians that the Federal Government is intensifying efforts to secure the release of abducted pupils and other citizens being held by kidnappers and terrorist groups across the country.
Shettima gave the assurance on Friday in Abuja after a special Jummat prayer held at the National Mosque as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The Vice President said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully committed to addressing insecurity and restoring peace, safety, and stability across Nigeria. According to him, the administration is determined to confront security challenges and ensure that affected communities return to normal life.
His remarks come amid growing concern over the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, as well as other security incidents reported in different parts of the country.
Shettima stated that the government would continue to deploy resources and strategies aimed at ending violence, criminality, and terrorism. He emphasized that ongoing security challenges would not deter the administration from pursuing its objective of protecting citizens and securing communities.
“I want to assure Nigerians of President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment towards restoring peace and stability in the nation,” the Vice President said.
He expressed confidence that the country would overcome its current difficulties, describing the security challenges as temporary obstacles that can be addressed through sustained efforts and cooperation.
“No matter how long the night is, it must give way to the light of dawn. Stormy as the weather may be, it will not rain forever,” he said.
“The government remains irrevocably committed to restoring peace and stability in the nation.”
Shettima also called on Nigerians to remain united and continue praying for the country. He stressed that the bonds that unite Nigerians are stronger than the differences that may exist among them, urging citizens to support efforts aimed at promoting peace and national cohesion.
According to the Vice President, national unity remains essential to overcoming the country’s security and developmental challenges. He encouraged citizens to maintain hope and confidence in the government’s efforts to improve the security situation.
The Federal Government has repeatedly stated that tackling insecurity remains one of its top priorities. Security agencies have continued operations against kidnappers, bandits, terrorists, and other criminal groups operating in various regions of the country.
Recent attacks involving schools and communities have heightened concerns about safety, particularly in rural areas where kidnappings for ransom have become a recurring threat. The abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State has generated widespread condemnation and renewed calls for stronger security measures around educational institutions.
President Tinubu has previously directed security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure that perpetrators of violent crimes are apprehended and prosecuted. Government officials have also highlighted ongoing investments in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and security infrastructure as part of broader efforts to combat insecurity.
Religious leaders and community stakeholders attending the Democracy Day prayer session echoed calls for peace and national unity. They urged citizens to support security agencies and provide useful information that could assist efforts to prevent crime and violence.
As rescue operations continue and security agencies pursue those responsible for recent attacks, the Federal Government says it remains focused on ensuring the safe return of abducted victims and restoring confidence in the nation’s security architecture.
The assurance from Shettima is expected to provide some encouragement to affected families and communities awaiting the release of loved ones, even as the broader challenge of insecurity remains a key concern for Nigerians.
