Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed deep concern over the recent wave of mass abductions in different parts of the country, describing the situation as troubling and distressing for families and communities. She stated this on Thursday during a Christmas engagement with children at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.
Speaking at the annual event, which brings together children from less-privileged backgrounds, Mrs Tinubu said the government was fully aware of the security challenges and was working hard to address them. She noted that although the administration had responded swiftly to the latest incidents, issues of national security, especially in a large and diverse country like Nigeria require patience, steady reforms, and cooperation from citizens.
Her remarks come at a time when Nigerians have expressed growing worry over a series of kidnappings targeting schools and rural communities, particularly in the northern part of the country. Over the past decade, mass abductions have become a recurring threat, beginning with the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ kidnapping and followed by several similar attacks in states such as Zamfara, Niger, Kaduna, and Yobe. These incidents have put pressure on successive governments to strengthen security around schools, improve intelligence operations, and tackle the armed groups responsible.
Mrs Tinubu acknowledged these concerns while stressing the importance of patience. “Security requires time and collective effort,” she said, adding that rescue operations currently underway had received full government support. Although she did not provide details, her comments suggested that authorities are managing sensitive operations and prefer to share information only when necessary.
During the interactive segment of the Christmas event, the First Lady said many of the children expressed interest in joining the military. She described their enthusiasm as a positive sign of patriotism among young Nigerians. According to her, this interest reflects a growing desire among children to support national security efforts and contribute to the peace and unity of the country.
Beyond security concerns, Mrs Tinubu used the Christmas gathering to emphasise the value of cultural identity. She encouraged Nigerians to embrace storytelling, traditions, and practices that reflect African heritage. According to her, Christmas should not only be about celebrations but also about passing down cultural lessons to the next generation.
She spoke about the importance of sharing, kindness, and support during the festive season. The First Lady reminded families that generosity is an essential part of building strong and resilient communities. She urged Nigerians to continue helping one another in the coming year, adding that acts of compassion—whether big or small—play a powerful role in national unity.
The Christmas programme, held annually at the State House, is one of the First Lady’s initiatives aimed at giving children an opportunity to celebrate the season in a joyful environment. Many of the children who attend come from orphanages, rural communities, and low-income households. The event usually features music, games, cultural performances, and gift presentations.
Nigeria has faced persistent security problems over the past 15 years, with kidnapping for ransom emerging as one of the most disturbing trends. The rise of armed bandit groups, especially in the North-West, has made many rural communities vulnerable. The federal government has launched various security operations, including the deployment of more troops, airstrikes against criminal camps, and collaboration with state governments.
Despite these efforts, many Nigerians continue to call for reforms such as state policing, better intelligence gathering, and improved welfare for security personnel. The Tinubu administration has repeatedly said that addressing insecurity is one of its top priorities, alongside economic reforms and social welfare programmes.
Mrs Tinubu’s comments on Thursday align with earlier government statements urging Nigerians not to panic but to support ongoing operations. Security experts say successful rescue missions often depend on careful planning, minimal public interference, and cooperation from affected communities.
As families prepare for Christmas across the country, the First Lady encouraged Nigerians to approach the festive period with hope, unity, and renewed commitment to one another’s wellbeing. She noted that while the country faces serious challenges, especially regarding the protection of children, collective resilience remains a powerful tool.