The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to securing the release of people kidnapped across the country, assuring affected families that efforts are ongoing to rescue victims from their captors.
Musa gave the assurance on Saturday after receiving the Southern Kaduna Grand Commander Award during the 2026 Southern Kaduna Festival.
Addressing attendees at the event, the minister acknowledged that many Nigerians were still being held by kidnappers and promised that the government and security agencies would continue working tirelessly to ensure their safe return.
“As we speak, I know we still have some of our brothers and sisters that have been kidnapped, abducted. Wherever they are, they will know that we are always with them. And we will do whatever it takes to ensure that we free them,” he said.
He emphasized that defeating insecurity would require greater unity among citizens and stronger collaboration with security agencies, noting that collective action remained essential in the fight against criminality.
“And we can only do that if we work together in unity. No evil can overcome us because God is on our side,” Musa added.
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The defence minister urged residents to provide credible and timely information to security operatives, stressing that intelligence from local communities plays a crucial role in tackling security threats.
He reiterated the determination of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to safeguard lives, protect property, and preserve the country’s territorial integrity.
“Together with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, we remain committed to protecting our nation, defending its territorial integrity, and creating a secure environment in which citizens can pursue their legitimate aspirations,” he said.
According to Musa, significant measures are being implemented to address security challenges in different parts of the country, adding that peace and security are vital foundations for economic development and national progress.
Speaking on the honour bestowed on him, the minister expressed gratitude to his community, describing the recognition as particularly meaningful because it came from people who contributed to his upbringing and personal development.
He said, “Awards received elsewhere are certainly appreciations, but recognition from the community that nurtured you, shaped your values, and contributed to your journey carries a special significance. It speaks not only to achievement, but also to belonging. It is therefore with profound gratitude that I accept the award on behalf of myself, my family, my beautiful wife, and all other recipients.”
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Responding to questions after the event, Musa alleged that some criminal groups receive assistance from individuals within communities, including informants and logistical supporters, and called for such persons to be identified and exposed.
“We have people that are giving them information, we have people that are their informants, we have people that are giving them logistics for them to come. It’s important that we identify these people and bring them out,” he said.
The minister also appealed to citizens to promptly report suspicious movements and activities, maintaining that actionable intelligence would strengthen ongoing efforts to curb kidnapping and other forms of crime.
His comments come amid renewed concern over a wave of kidnapping incidents across the country, including the abduction of pupils and teachers during coordinated attacks on schools in the Ogbomoso area of Oyo State. The incident has sparked widespread calls for improved security around educational institutions and the immediate rescue of those still in captivity.
