Remaining Kidnapped CUSTECH Students Rescued by Kogi Government

The Kogi State government has successfully rescued the remaining eight kidnapped students of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara. This was announced by Kingsley Fanwo, the Information Commissioner, in a statement released on Sunday.

RECOMMENDED: Two CUSTECH Students Killed by Kidnappers, University Declares Mourning

Governor Ahmed Ododo led the initiative, ensuring full support for the students' recovery and their safe return to their parents. Efforts are ongoing to enhance security measures across Kogi State.

The statement expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for mobilizing resources crucial to the students' rescue. Additionally, appreciation was extended to the National Security Adviser for his significant role in ensuring the students' release and overall state security.

Governor Ododo also commended various security chiefs, including the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Inspector General of Police, and officers of the armed forces, for their dedicated efforts in reuniting the students with their families. Special thanks were given to the Kogi State Command of all security agencies, including the police, DSS, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local hunters.

Moreover, the statement acknowledged the personal commitment and cooperation of Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazak, whose support was instrumental in the success of the rescue operation. This collaboration has further strengthened the unity and cooperation between Kogi and Kwara states

SEE MORE: NSCDC Pledges Enhanced Security Measures for Kogi Schools Following Student Abductions

The statement reaffirmed the Ododo administration's commitment to recalibrating the state's security architecture and enhancing the Safe School Initiative. Kogi State, recognized for having the lowest number of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria, continues to prioritize education by implementing robust safety measures in schools. The state has domesticated the Child Rights Act and provides free education up to the secondary school level, including covering the costs for all internal and external examinations, surpassing the UNESCO benchmark for education budget allocation.

READ ALSO: CUSTECH VC Assures Safe Return of Abducted Students Amid Kidnapping Crisis

Citizens were urged to actively volunteer intelligence to security agencies to prevent crime, highlighting the importance of community involvement in defeating banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality.