Former Information Minister, Prof. Jerry Gana, has expressed deep concern over the rising wave of school kidnappings in Northern Nigeria, warning that the abductors may be taking children to use as human shields. He said this trend may be linked to recent threats reportedly issued by U.S. President Donald Trump, which some armed groups appear to be taking seriously.
Gana made the remarks in Abuja on Saturday during a reception held in honour of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, following his emergence as chairman of the World Customs Organisation (WCO). The comment was also delivered at a fundraising dinner for the national secretariat of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.
While commending Adeniyi’s global appointment, Gana noted that the pattern of recent abductions suggests the criminals believe a foreign military operation may be imminent. According to him, this fear may be driving them to hide deeper within forested areas while seizing civilians to shield themselves.
He explained that the matter should be a serious concern for national leaders and elders, emphasising that intelligence reports indicate the kidnappers are repositioning strategically. Gana urged the Federal Government to enhance collaboration with international partners, noting that modern technology allows armed groups to be targeted from afar.
He stressed the need for decisive action, saying the Nigerian government must work closely with those capable of providing technological and tactical support.
At the same event, Minister of Information Idris Mohammed revealed that foreign news outlets have been pressuring him for updates on the kidnappings in Kebbi and Niger states. He assured that the Federal Government is working urgently to secure the release of the abducted students, noting that President Bola Tinubu has issued firm directives on addressing the crisis.
Mohammed, however, cautioned Nigerians against amplifying insecurity narratives on the international stage. He emphasised that unity and responsible communication are essential to resolving the situation, dismissing claims that insecurity is targeting a specific region.
Also speaking, Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite praised Adeniyi’s new role at the WCO, describing it as a milestone that strengthens Nigeria’s position in global trade. NIPR President Ike Neliaku also commended Adeniyi’s leadership and dedication.
The concerns raised by Gana come amid heightened attention from Washington. Earlier this week, U.S. Congressman Riley Moore stated that violence against Christian communities in Nigeria was “escalating out of control,” even describing it as a potential genocide. He warned that the situation could trigger a strong U.S. response if the Nigerian government does not act decisively.
Moore held a meeting with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu on Wednesday to discuss counterterrorism strategies and support for vulnerable groups. This meeting followed fresh school abductions, including the attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, where at least 24 students were taken.
Similar incidents have also been reported in Niger State, further fueling international concern.