When news broke that over 200 schoolchildren (military later stated they are 130+) were kidnapped from their primary school in Kaduna state early this month, my heart went way back to 10 years ago when a similar incident occurred in Borno state. That incident in Chibok has since become the #BringBackOurGirls saga till date. More than 90 of those girls are still at large.
My heart went way back because I knew safety for these children has to come as early as possible. If they stay longer, they could become bargaining chips, sex objects, human shields, suicide bombers, etc.
For the community, such an event may lead to disenchantment about education. Parents will simply keep their children at home. This is not good for the country with a huge population of out-of-school children.
Our God be praised that over the weekend, good news broke that the children have been rescued. This is less than 30 days. It is a great relief!
I salute the Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the military, and every individual and agency who ensured the safe return of these schoolchildren. Safety in schools is critical to development!