By Joy Odor Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has moved to reassure a deeply anxious nation following the abduction of pupils from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Agwara, Niger State, declaring the rescue of the children a top national security priority and confirming that a coordinated, multi-agency search operation is already underway.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General Michael E. Onoja, acknowledged the fear, frustration and rising tension among parents and communities, stressing that the Armed Forces are fully committed to bringing every child home safely.
According to the DHQ, the children’s recovery has become a central focus across all security formations, with operational assets being deployed to support the mission.
Senior military officials described the effort as “relentless and uncompromising,” reflecting the urgency of the situation and the gravity of the crime.
The military urged residents, community leaders and parents to channel credible, actionable intelligence directly to security agencies, noting that timely information could significantly strengthen the rescue effort.
In a rare and pointed appeal, the DHQ cautioned the public and media outlets against circulating rumours or unverified claims about the incident.
Such misinformation, it warned, could jeopardise ongoing rescue operations, mislead families and embolden criminal groups.
“Public cooperation is essential,” the statement emphasized, adding that the Armed Forces are working methodically to avoid operational errors and safeguard the hostages’ wellbeing.
Military insiders confirm that ground troops, air surveillance platforms and intelligence units have been activated across Niger State and adjoining corridors known for bandit movement.
Coordination is also underway with local vigilante networks and community trackers.
Though the DHQ did not disclose operational details, security experts note that such silence is typical in sensitive rescue missions where stealth and precision can determine the outcome.
As the hours turn into days, emotions remain raw in Agwara.
Parents have crowded makeshift gathering points at the school grounds, clinging to any update from authorities and praying for swift relief.
The DHQ, in its closing assurance, vowed that the operation will continue “until every child is returned to their family.”
For a country still reeling from similar tragedies, the rescue of the St. Mary’s pupils have become more than a mission, it is a test of institutional resolve and national unity.
