The National Park Service (NPS) has commended President Bola Tinubu and Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for their roles in the successful rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The Conservator-General (C-G) of the NPS, Dr Ibrahim Goni, gave the commendation in a statement issued by his Media Assistant, Mrs Agbor Eba, on Wednesday in Abuja.
Goni expressed gratitude to the President for his unwavering commitment, leadership and decisive interventions, which led to the safe rescue and release of the victims abducted from their school on May 15, 2026.
He also commended Makinde for his steadfast support and collaboration throughout the rescue operation, describing the Oyo State Government’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of the victims as highly commendable.
Goni further acknowledged the contributions of members of the public, community leaders, local hunters and other individuals who provided credible intelligence and timely information that supported the rescue mission.
He also thanked the various stakeholders for their collective efforts in addressing the security challenges.
“The Service rejoices with the affected community over the safe return of the pupils and their teachers and expresses condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones during the attack,” he said.
Goni said the victims had earlier been reassured of the Service’s commitment to their safety by the Conservator of Parks (CP), Adeniyi Tesleem, of the Old Oyo National Park, who met with them.
He also appreciated Malam Balarabe Lawal, Minister of Environment, and Dr Kingsley Ononogbu, Chairman of the NPS Governing Board, for their support and guidance throughout the rescue operation.
