More than seven weeks after coordinated attacks on schools in Oyo and Borno states, growing concern surrounds the fate of dozens of abducted pupils and teachers still being held by terrorists, with medical experts warning that their health could rapidly deteriorate if they are not rescued soon.

The victims were kidnapped during separate attacks on May 15, 2026, and have now spent at least 54 days in forest hideouts exposed to persistent rainfall, cold weather and poor living conditions. Health professionals say the prolonged captivity places the children at high risk of pneumonia, malaria, hypothermia, respiratory infections and other potentially life-threatening illnesses.

Oyo pupils remain in captivity

In Oyo State, terrorists stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, L.A. Primary School, and Community Grammar School, Esiele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area, abducting 39 pupils and seven teachers, including a school principal.

Days after the attack, the kidnappers released a disturbing video showing the killing of one of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, intensifying fears over the safety of the remaining captives.

There were also reports claiming that one of the abducted pupils had died in captivity. However, the Oyo State Police Command dismissed the claim, insisting it was false.

Security sources believe the victims are being held within the Old Oyo National Park, where security operatives have intensified operations. The dense forest, which provides escape routes into neighbouring Kwara State, has complicated rescue efforts.

Despite the challenges, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Oyo State Command, Olayinka Olushola, expressed confidence that the victims would be rescued safely.

“Yes, I can assure you they will be rescued unhurt,” he said.

Many Borno pupils still missing

On the same day, suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attacked Central Primary School in Mussa village, Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, abducting about 50 pupils after invading the community.

Although some of the children have since regained their freedom, many are still believed to be held in the forest.

The Borno State Police Command said the rescue operation is now under the control of the military through Operation HADIN KAI. Police spokesperson ASP Daso Nahum Kenneth said the command had yet to receive updated information on the operation.

Meanwhile, the acting Military Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Mohammed Goni, confirmed that six of the abducted pupils had been rescued.

Doctor raises alarm over health risks

Paediatrician Dr. Hope Adejor warned that the children face serious health complications because of their prolonged exposure to harsh weather and unsanitary conditions.

She explained that continuous exposure to rain and cold weakens children’s immune systems, making them particularly vulnerable to diseases such as pneumonia, malaria, hypothermia, leptospirosis, dengue fever and severe respiratory infections.

“The weather itself is harsh, even for adults. Yet children as young as four and five are out there in the bush with no shelter. Days of exposure to cold can weaken their immune system, and children’s lungs are especially vulnerable,” she said.

Dr. Adejor added that even after rescue, many of the children could require extensive medical treatment and psychological rehabilitation because of the trauma they have endured.

Army says rescue operation is making progress

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has assured Nigerians that troops are making significant progress in efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State.

Speaking during an interactive session with media executives in Port Harcourt as part of activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, the Army Chief expressed confidence that the ongoing operation would end successfully.

“Operations are currently ongoing to rescue those children abducted in Oyo State, and we are making tremendous progress,” Shaibu said.

He reiterated that the military remains committed to ensuring the safe rescue of the victims and their reunion with their families.