According to a video posted on News Central on Friday July 10, 2026, Nigeria’s Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa, explained why abducted schoolchildren remain in captivity, pointing to a ransom demand tied to detained commanders.
In an interview from 06:21 on News Central, General Christopher Musa, addressed the abduction of schoolchildren by armed groups, explaining that the kidnappers are using the children as leverage to secure the release of their detained commanders.
Musa described the abduction as a deeply painful event that should not have happened, but noted that the armed forces understand exactly why it occurred.
He said the military currently holds some commanders belonging to the group responsible, and the kidnappers believe holding the children hostage will force the government’s hand.
In his words, Christopher Musa said, “For whatever reason, they are looking for leverage because we have some of their commanders with us, and they feel taking these kids and holding them for ransom will make us release their commanders.
“So that’s what’s really happening, and that’s why they did what they had to do,” he said.
The minister explained that the abduction took place near a community only a short distance from a forest that stretches across Nigeria, Benin Republic and Burkina Faso, making it difficult for troops to track the captors.
He said the thick vegetation in the area gives the attackers an advantage, but assured Nigerians that operations are ongoing to recover the children alive.
Musa said both kinetic and non-kinetic measures are being applied to locate the children safely, adding that the safety of the young captives remains the military’s top priority.
He appealed for patience, noting that any rushed action could put the children’s lives at greater risk, given the sensitive nature of the ongoing operation….See More