Amid rising abductions, the Igbo Women Ambassadors have called on state governors to step up efforts to secure children and youths, especially in vulnerable communities nationwide.
In a statement signed by its President, Lady Marlene Onyeocha-Okolie, the group described the continued kidnapping of children by bandits as a “national emergency that demands urgent action”.
The group warned that the abduction of children, who are “leaders of tomorrow”, portends a bleak future for the nation if not addressed.
It urged government to move beyond rhetoric and implement concrete security measures to end the menace.
“State governments must move beyond rhetoric and implement concrete security measures. There should be improved intelligence gathering, stronger community policing, and adequate funding for child protection and youth safety initiatives,” the statement read.
Igbo Women Ambassadors also called for renewed collaboration among security forces, local communities, and stakeholders to rescue kidnapped children and prevent further abductions.
“We are using this medium to appeal to all security agencies across the country to deploy their best resources, professionalism, and commitment to ensure that kidnapped children are rescued and returned safely to their families,” the group said.
