The Nigerian Government is currently evaluating international offers to aid in the crackdown on kidnapping and other significant criminal activities.
Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris, disclosed that the United States, among other unnamed nations, has proposed support for Nigeria.
This announcement was made following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) session chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.
Minister Idris relayed President Tinubu’s firm stance on the non-payment of ransoms and his order for security forces to guarantee the safe recovery of all individuals kidnapped.
The northern region has seen a surge in kidnapping incidents recently.
Just last week, an alarming incident occurred where 287 students were taken from a primary school under the Local Education Authority (LEA) in Kuriga, within the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna.
Additionally, a group suspected of terrorism abducted over 61 individuals in the Buda community of Kajuru Local Government Area, and bandits seized 16 Qur’anic scholars in Sokoto.
Reports have also surfaced of abductions involving women from an Internally Displaced Peoples (IDP) camp in Borno, though official confirmation is pending.
The public has increasingly urged the government to consider international assistance to combat the escalating security challenges, particularly the widespread kidnapping of students.
For the first time, the government has acknowledged receiving offers of help from abroad.
Minister Idris emphasized the ongoing review of these international proposals, assuring that the government’s decision will be communicated in due course.
He further stated that efforts by security agencies to rescue the kidnapped individuals are intensifying.
Minister Idris reiterated the President’s directive to the Ministry of Defense and security agencies to prioritize the safe return of the abducted to their families, expressing confidence in their imminent rescue.
