Defence minister vows rescue of kidnap victims

The Minister of Defence, Gen Christopher Musa (retd), has assured that the Federal Government and security agencies will do everything possible to secure the release of persons kidnapped in the country.

Musa gave the assurance on Saturday while speaking after being conferred with the Southern Kaduna Grand Commander award at the 2026 Southern Kaduna Festival.

Speaking, the minister acknowledged that some residents were still being held by kidnappers and pledged continued efforts to secure their freedom.

“As we speak, I know we still have some of our brothers and sisters that have been kidnapped, abducted. Wherever they are, they will know that we are always with them. And we will do whatever it takes to ensure that we free them,” he said.

He stressed that unity and cooperation among residents would be critical to tackling insecurity and ensuring the safe return of abducted persons.

“And we can only do that if we work together in unity. No evil can overcome us because God is on our side,” Musa added.

The minister urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible information, noting that collective efforts were necessary to address security challenges.

He reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to protecting lives and property across the country.

“Together with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, we remain committed to protecting our nation, defending its territorial integrity, and creating a secure environment in which citizens can pursue their legitimate aspirations,” he said.

Musa also said significant efforts were being made to address threats to peace and security in different parts of the country, adding that security remained the foundation for economic growth and national development.

Speaking on the award, Musa appreciated leaders from his community for honouring him.

He said, “Awards received elsewhere are certainly appreciations, but recognition from the community that nurtured you, shaped your values, and contributed to your journey carries a special significance. It speaks not only to achievement, but also to belonging. It is therefore with profound gratitude that I accept the award on behalf of myself, my family, my beautiful wife, and all other recipients.”

Responding to questions after the event, the minister called on communities to work closely with security agencies, alleging that some criminal elements receive support from informants within communities.

“We have people that are giving them information, we have people that are their informants, we have people that are giving them logistics for them to come. It’s important that we identify these people and bring them out,” he said.

He urged citizens to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, saying timely intelligence would enhance efforts to combat kidnapping and other crimes.

Musa’s assurance came amid growing concerns over recent kidnapping incidents across the country.

His remarks followed an appeal by the abducted Vice Principal of Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, Folawe Alamu, who urged President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and other Nigerians to negotiate with their captors to secure her release and others.

The appeal came 15 days after gunmen abducted pupils and teachers during coordinated attacks on schools in the Ogbomoso axis of Oyo State, raising fresh concerns about the safety of students and education workers.