Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani Bello has met with President Muhammadu Buhari over the Wednesday abduction of 27 students and 17 staff of Government Science College, Kagara, Niger state.
The meeting came more than 24 hours after the students were abducted by bandits in their hostels.
Fielding question after the meeting, Bello said the president expressed sadness over the situation, and promised to ensure the safe release of all the victims.
He said: “I came in this evening to thank Mr president for his quick response to the plight of Nigerlites, following two serious kidnap incidents. At the same time, we rubbed minds on what we think should be done so that we find an everlasting solution to the situation, and Mr president has confirmed to me that this matter will be given proper attention.
“At the moment, if you look at what is happening, we are having security challenges in almost all parts of the country. So, there’s a need to install some form of emergency on security matters across board. Something definitely needs to be done.
“I’m very convinced by what Mr president told me, and I’ve seen the presence of the military in Kagara. I was there earlier and I also request for some additional personnel and equipment, which I believe will be granted any moment from now.
“Right now, our immediate priority is to get the kidnapped victims released. After that, I think we must have a long-lasting solution to the farmers/herders conflicts.”