The federal government has reaffirmed its stance on not paying ransom to secure the release of abducted individuals, including the recent case of the 287 school children kidnapped from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Speaking after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reiterated the government’s policy of non-payment of ransom. He emphasized that this principle was upheld in the case of the Kuriga school children.
Idris expressed appreciation for the efforts of the security services in safely reuniting the abducted children with their families. He assured the public that the government is committed to bringing all perpetrators of such criminal acts to justice.
The release of the school children followed a combined effort of security personnel, prompting President Bola Tinubu to renew his commitment to protecting educational facilities from such incidents. He commended the diligence of the National Security Adviser, service chiefs, and all security agents involved in the rescue operation.
Furthermore, Minister Idris provided insight into President Tinubu’s upcoming birthday celebration, revealing that the President has opted for a private affair without any formal ceremony. He emphasized the President’s directive to channel resources away from congratulatory gestures towards charity and social security programs for the benefit of Nigerians.
In addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges, Minister Idris highlighted the establishment of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, approved by the Federal Executive Council. This fund, to be domiciled in the Presidency, aims to bridge the infrastructure deficit in the country, which requires substantial investment totaling $878 billion between 2016 and 2040.
The government, under President Tinubu’s leadership, remains committed to addressing Nigeria’s developmental needs and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
