National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has reassured parents of over 300 kidnapped pupils and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Niger State that their children “are doing fine and will be back soon,” as federal authorities intensify efforts to secure their release.

The students and staff were abducted on Friday, November 21, in Papiri, Agwarra Local Government Area of Niger State.

Ribadu delivered the reassurance on Monday during a meeting at St. Michael’s Catholic Cathedral, Kontagora, with the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, parents of the victims, and officials of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). He was accompanied by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Bernard Doro, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi, and CAN Northern Nigeria Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab.

During the meeting, Ribadu emphasized that federal security operations had been intensified to ensure the safe return of the children. Daniel Atori, Media Aide to Bishop Yohanna, noted that while many parents were relieved by the reassurance, some remained cautious until their children are reunited with them.

Addressing the congregation, Ribadu said: “This is a very solemn and difficult moment for us, especially after hearing from some of the parents and all of you. However, we take responsibility because it is our duty to protect you.” He added that his visit was under the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is personally concerned about the crisis.

Ribadu called on Nigerians to unite against insecurity, warning, “Enough is enough, we will not relent in our efforts. We are all under attack. Let us not allow bad people to divide us, let us not allow evil to get into us.”

He praised Bishop Yohanna’s resilience and reinforced his assurance to the parents: “The children are where they are and will come back safely. God is with them and God is with us. Evil will never win. They are going to come back; I give you assurance.”

Ribadu also revealed that international partners, including the United States, France, and the United Kingdom, are supporting Nigeria’s efforts to end such attacks, calling it a global effort to tackle decades-long insecurity in the country.

He concluded by pledging increased security in the affected areas: “We will provide security in that axis. You will see our reactions and responses now. One thing I know is that evil people will always be around, but this thing they have done is what will change Nigeria for good.”

Despite these assurances, CAN leaders expressed frustration with the state government’s handling of the crisis. A source told reporters that the association accused Governor Umar Bago of ignoring their concerns and failing to respond adequately to the abductions.