Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, on Thursday reunited 76 minors, detained during the August #EndBadGovernance protests, with their families.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Shehu Sagagi, the governor officiated the ceremony at the Muhammadu Buhari Specialist Hospital, where the children had been sheltered and treated for ailments they endured during their detention.
The move follows a directive from President Bola Tinubu, which led to the minors’ release.
In his address, Yusuf lauded the president’s intervention and emphasized the importance of education in reshaping the future of the state.
“I want to call on parents to complement the government’s efforts towards ensuring these children are properly educated to enable them to contribute towards the development of the state and the country,” he stated.
The governor also issued a cautionary note to the parents, urging them not to exploit their children’s situation by seeking financial aid through associations or other means.
He assured them that the state government is committed to supporting the minors’ reintegration into the education system, pledging collaboration with the state Commissioner for Education.
The Commissioner for Education, Haruna Doguwa, provided further details about the government’s plans, revealing targeted support for the children’s academic futures.
“One of the protesters, a final-year undergraduate, will receive assistance to complete his studies, while another holding a National Certificate in Education will be offered employment,” he disclosed.
In addition, the commissioner announced the provision of essential educational materials for 50 of the minors, including new shoes and two sets of school uniforms, to facilitate their return to secondary school.
Health Commissioner Dr. Abubakar Yusuf highlighted the comprehensive care provided to the minors during their stay at the hospital.
“The 76 minors who had been accommodated in this facility underwent a medical evaluation and received necessary treatment before being reunited with their families today,” he explained.
Parents who attended the handover expressed gratitude to the state government for prioritizing their children’s welfare.
Several commended the intervention and acknowledged the role of various individuals and agencies in securing the children’s release.
In a generous gesture, former Sokoto State Governor Attahiru Bafarawa donated ₦50,000 to each child, specifically for their educational needs.
The event marked not only a return to their families for the children but also a renewed focus on education as a pathway to rebuilding their lives and contributing to the progress of Kano State.
