In a significant breakthrough, the governor of Kaduna state in Nigeria announced on Sunday that nearly 300 schoolchildren who were kidnapped earlier this month have been released. Uba Sani confirmed that the children from Kuriga school were released unharmed, though no further details were provided.

The abduction took place on March 7, when armed bandits on motorcycles stormed the LEA Primary and Secondary School in Kuriga village, located in Kaduna's Chikun district. At the time of the incident, the state's police spokesman, Mansur Hassan, had reported that more than 300 students were taken, with some being rescued initially. However, around 287 remained with the kidnappers, including approximately 100 from the primary school and the rest from the secondary school.

The kidnappers had demanded a ransom of 1 billion naira ($620,000) and threatened to harm the students if their demands were not met. The local community member revealed this information and expressed concerns about the safety of the children.

In his statement, Governor Uba Sani expressed gratitude to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for his tireless efforts in ensuring the safe return of the children. He also acknowledged the coordinating role of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu in the successful outcome.

Sani further commended the Nigerian Army for their courage, determination, and commitment in degrading criminal elements and restoring security in the region. Kaduna state, which shares a border with Nigeria's capital, Abuja, has been plagued by recurrent incidents of kidnapping for ransom by bandits. Mass abductions have become an unfortunate reality in recent years.

The release of the kidnapped schoolchildren brings a glimmer of hope in the fight against insecurity in the region. Authorities are expected to continue their efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of all Nigerians, particularly schoolchildren who are often vulnerable to such heinous crimes.