A coalition of leading Nigerian diaspora organisations has congratulated Nigerians on the successful rescue of the school pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Community in Oyo State, describing the development as a significant breakthrough in the country's fight against kidnapping and terrorism.
The coalition, in a statement issued on Saturday, said the safe release of the victims after 56 days in captivity represented a major victory for Nigeria's security architecture and demonstrated the effectiveness of collaboration among the Federal Government, security agencies, state authorities and local communities.
The organisations commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing what they described as strong leadership, political will and unwavering support that enabled security agencies to intensify rescue operations without compromising the safety of the victims.
According to the coalition, the President's commitment to restoring peace and strengthening national security continues to inspire confidence among Nigerians.
The group also praised the Nigerian Armed Forces, intelligence operatives and other security agencies involved in the operation, noting that the arrest of eight suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate and the neutralisation of several other criminal elements reflected the growing operational capacity of the nation's security forces.
It further lauded the Oyo State Government under Governor Seyi Makinde for working closely with federal authorities and security agencies throughout the rescue efforts.
The coalition equally acknowledged the contributions of traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders, saying their cooperation played a vital role in securing the victims' freedom.
While celebrating the successful rescue, the organisations expressed sympathy for the pupils, teachers, their families and the entire Oriire Community over the emotional trauma, anxiety and uncertainty experienced during the 56-day ordeal.
READ ALSO: https://superfm.online/station/news-post?id=6a513026d8aba1783705638
They called on relevant authorities to provide adequate medical care, psychological support and other rehabilitation services to facilitate the victims' recovery and reintegration into society.
The coalition, however, cautioned that the successful operation should not diminish efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country.
It urged governments at all levels to sustain investments in intelligence gathering, surveillance technology, rapid response capabilities and improved welfare for security personnel to strengthen the nation's security framework.
The organisations also advocated increased security surveillance around schools, rural communities and other vulnerable locations, while calling on security agencies to deepen intelligence-led policing and strengthen collaboration with lawful community-based security structures.
They appealed to Nigerians to support community policing initiatives by remaining vigilant, promptly reporting suspicious activities and cooperating with law enforcement agencies.
According to the coalition, community participation remains a critical component of an effective national security strategy because residents are often the first to observe unusual movements within their localities.
The organisations also encouraged governments to sustain investments in education, insisting that criminal activities should not be allowed to discourage school attendance.
"Every Nigerian child deserves access to quality education in a safe and secure environment free from fear and intimidation," the statement said.
The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies and initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security, justice and sustainable development, while urging all stakeholders to remain united in confronting criminality and supporting security institutions in protecting lives and property.
The statement was jointly signed by The Global Peace Movement International, led by Dr. Mike Uyi; The International Watchers, chaired by Dr. Olusegun Ademola; the Nigerian Heritage and Development Agenda, represented by its Secretary General, Dr. Imatitikwa Igbinoba; the Sustained Policy and Reform Coalition, headed by Dr. Hauwa Ladi Usman; the Nigerian Interest Protection Forum, chaired by Dr. Chidebere Chiamaka Ifesinachi; and the Diaspora Accountability Network Nigeria, represented by its Secretary General, Dr. Beatrice Etim-Onyemachi.