PRESS RELEASE
CHILDREN’S DAY SHOULD NOT BE A CELEBRATION OF SILENCE: TBI CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION TO SECURE THE RELEASE OF ABDUCTED PUPILS AND TEACHERS IN ORIIRE LGA
27 May 2026
As Nigeria commemorates Children’s Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the rights, wellbeing, protection, and future of every child, Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria (TBI) joins millions of Nigerians in reflecting on the state of our children and our collective responsibility to keep them safe.
However, this year’s celebration is overshadowed by deep concern and sadness over the continued captivity of school pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. While many children across the country are participating in Children’s Day activities, some children and their teachers remain separated from their families, classrooms, and communities under circumstances that continue to generate anxiety and fear.
The continued captivity of these children raises serious concerns about their safety, wellbeing, physical condition, emotional health, and access to basic care. Their families, classmates, teachers, and communities remain distressed, uncertain, and hopeful for their safe return.
At a time when we should be celebrating children’s potential and reaffirming our commitment to their protection, we are compelled to ask:
How can we truly celebrate Children’s Day when some children are still being held in captivity?
Every child has the fundamental right to life, safety, education, dignity, and protection from violence. Schools must remain places of learning, growth, and opportunity—not locations associated with fear and insecurity. The protection of children must remain a top priority at all levels of government and society.
Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria therefore appeals to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Oyo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to intensify efforts toward securing the immediate and safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers. We urge security agencies to deploy all necessary resources, intelligence, and operational measures required to bring this unfortunate situation to a swift and successful resolution.
We also call on government authorities to strengthen preventive measures around schools and vulnerable communities to ensure that children can access education in safe and secure environments without fear of abduction or violence.
As we mark Children’s Day, we stand in solidarity with the affected families, communities, and schools. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the abducted children and teachers, and we remain hopeful that they will soon regain their freedom and reunite safely with their loved ones.
No child should have to spend Children’s Day in captivity.
Signed:
Dr. Dare Olagoke-Adaramoye
Executive Director
Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria (TBI)
