A reception at Katuru Road in the State Capital, by the Kaduna State Government, marked the joyous reunion of the rescued Kuriga Students with their families.
Expressing gratitude, both the rescued students and their families thanked the governor for his unwavering attention and effort towards their quest for freedom.
Governor Uba Sani, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abdulkadir Meyere, reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring that the freed pupils pursue higher education and urged parents to continue praying for their children’s well-being.
Idris Abdullahi (Madakin Kuriga), the representative of the Kuriga community, conveyed appreciation to the State Governor for his dedication in securing the release of the children and offering support during challenging times until the formal handover.
He also acknowledged the government’s consistent engagement with the community’s leaders and provision of necessary support, including palliatives, while hoping that the Kuriga incident would be the last of its kind.
Additionally, he extended gratitude to Governor Uba Sani for ensuring the safe return of their children and lauded the collaboration of key figures like President Bola Tinubu, NSA Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Defense Staff General Christopher Musa, and other service chiefs for their professional efforts in securing the release.
Hajiya Rabi Salisu, the Commissioner for Social Welfare, expressed joy at the pupils’ release and mentioned the plan to take the freed students to Aso Rock Villa, which Governor Uba Sani aspires to fulfill soon.
Speaking on behalf of the male students, Suleman Lawal expressed immense gratitude for the collective efforts of the President, service chiefs, and the governor in securing their release.
Similarly, Aisha Muhammad, representing the female students, expressed happiness at the caring role played by government officials to ensure their safe return home.
The handover of the 137 students to their parents by the State government occurred after a detailed psycho-social process, as per Governor Uba Sani’s directive, to assess any potential trauma or physical health issues among the freed victims prior to the reunification.
Prior to the formal reunification, the students were treated to a special Ramadan dinner at the Government House, Kaduna.
Present at the event were the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Malam Sani Liman Kila, along with commissioners Samuel Aruwan (Internal Security) and Hajiya Rabi Salisu (Human Services), among others.