GistReel
Schoolchildren and teachers rescued after being abducted in Oyo State have expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerian security operatives for the efforts that led to their safe return.
In a video circulating online, the victims thanked the President for prioritizing their rescue and commended the combined efforts of security agencies, saying they believed the government’s commitment was instrumental in securing their freedom.
Speaking on behalf of the group, one of the rescued victims said:
“Hello sir, our father, we are grateful. The President sir, we are grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety and we appreciate all you did for us. We could see it in your heart. Thank you very much.
“And every security operative, they tried so much and that is why we are still alive now. We are very grateful to you. Thank you very much. Thank you sir. God bless you sir.”
The emotional message comes days after the successful rescue of pupils, teachers and other staff who were kidnapped when armed men attacked a school in Oyo State.
The victims were abducted after heavily armed gunmen stormed the school, causing panic among students, teachers and residents.
The attackers reportedly whisked away several pupils and members of staff into nearby forests, sparking nationwide concern and prompting an intensive search operation by security agencies.
Following the abduction, President Bola Tinubu directed security forces to ensure the safe rescue of all those taken captive.
Personnel from multiple security agencies launched coordinated intelligence-driven operations, working closely with local authorities and community stakeholders to track down the kidnappers.
After days in captivity, the victims were eventually rescued and reunited with their families, bringing relief to parents, relatives and members of the public who had closely followed the incident.
Their rescue has been widely welcomed as another significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts by Nigerian security agencies to combat kidnapping and improve security across the country.
In their message, the rescued schoolchildren and teachers emphasized that they remained alive because of the relentless efforts of security personnel, while praying for God’s blessings upon President Tinubu and all officers involved in the operation.
Watch the video here…
One of the rescued teachers in Oyo sends a thank you message to President Tinubu and the security agencies. pic.twitter.com/bGeuhvWH7F
— Bayo Onanuga, OON, CON (@aonanuga1956) July 10, 2026