The National Association of Yoruba Descendants in North America, popularly known as Egbe Omo Yoruba of North America, has called for stronger and sustained security measures across Nigeria following the successful rescue and release of abducted schoolchildren in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

While commending the Federal Government and security agencies for securing the safe return of the students, the diaspora organisation stressed that the incident highlights the urgent need for improved protection of schools and vulnerable communities.

In a statement signed by its National President, Dr. Ayodeji Famuyide, and National General Secretary, Hon. Rotimi Kuteyi, on Wednesday the group said the Ogbomoso abduction should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to strengthen preventive security frameworks rather than relying solely on rescue operations.

The association urged federal and state governments to institutionalise regular joint security exercises, improve intelligence-sharing mechanisms and establish interoperable communication systems among security agencies to ensure faster and more coordinated responses to emergencies.

According to the group, greater emphasis should also be placed on community-based intelligence gathering, protection of informants and ethical use of data to identify and neutralise threats before they materialise.

Egbe Omo Yoruba further advocated increased security presence around schools, deployment of child-friendly safeguarding measures and the implementation of rapid-response drills to minimise disruption during emergencies and better protect students and staff.

The organisation also called for the development of comprehensive national and regional contingency plans for child-focused emergencies, with clearly defined responsibilities for federal, state and local authorities.

It urged government at all levels to strengthen engagement with communities, faith-based organisations and cultural groups to improve situational awareness and rebuild public confidence in security institutions.

The association noted that social investment programmes, poverty alleviation initiatives, youth empowerment schemes and expanded educational opportunities should form part of a broader security strategy aimed at addressing the root causes of crime and insecurity.

“Schools must remain sanctuaries of learning and growth,” the statement said, adding that transparent communication on security operations and outcomes would help restore public trust and enhance future effectiveness.

Despite its concerns, the group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for what it described as effective inter-agency coordination that led to the successful release of the abducted students.

It also commended the Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force and other security stakeholders involved in the operation, while paying tribute to personnel who lost their lives during the mission, including Lieutenant F.A. Isaac.

Reaffirming its commitment to Nigeria’s development, Egbe Omo Yoruba said it would continue to advocate constructive security policies, governance reforms and empowerment initiatives that promote safety, justice and opportunity for all Nigerians.