The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured protesting teachers and civil society groups that security agencies are intensifying efforts to rescue abducted teachers and students across the country.

Speaking to demonstrators who gathered at the FCT Administration Secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike said the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring the safe return of all victims currently held by kidnappers.

He noted that security agencies are actively pursuing rescue operations and taking steps to strengthen public confidence in the nation’s security framework.

According to the minister, government authorities are deeply concerned about the situation and are working tirelessly to secure the victims’ freedom.

“We are all concerned about this security situation. The government is on its toes to ensure that those who are kidnapped are rescued,” he said.

Wike expressed confidence in the ability of the country’s security agencies to achieve results, stressing the importance of a prompt and coordinated response.

He, however, cautioned against turning insecurity into a political issue, describing it as a national challenge that affects all Nigerians regardless of region or political affiliation.

The minister pointed out that similar incidents have occurred in different parts of the country and called for a united approach in confronting criminal activities.

“We are all concerned, but let us not politicise issues. That is what I will not support. We are all concerned about the security situation and how the teachers and students should be released,” he stated.

Wike further revealed that security operatives have made significant progress in ongoing rescue efforts and are working within established procedures to ensure the safe recovery of those in captivity.

He emphasized that no responsible government would deliberately abandon its citizens to criminal elements, adding that authorities continue to face security challenges with determination and commitment.

Calling for national solidarity, the minister urged Nigerians to see insecurity as a collective concern, stressing that threats to any community ultimately affect the entire country.

The protest followed growing public concern over recent school abductions, with teachers’ unions and civil society organisations demanding stronger security measures around educational institutions and the immediate rescue of the victims.