UNICEF Projections: Citing a report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) focusing on areas like Shiroro, Governor Bago warned that the influx of children into mining sites could leave classrooms completely devoid of male students by 2027.

The Lure of Quick Cash: The governor noted that once children experience the financial returns of mining, they become reluctant to return to school or embrace traditional farming.

Call for Federal Intervention: Bago stressed that state-level enforcement alone is insufficient, urging the presidency and the Ministry of Mineral Resources to issue executive orders banning mining in high-risk locations.

Illegal Operations: The governor highlighted that illegal mining, logging, and poaching are frequently funded or operated by foreign expatriates who possess mining licenses, limiting the direct jurisdiction of state authorities.

Shift from Agriculture: Communities historically known for farming have seen their workforces heavily depleted as residents flock to illegal mining camps, compounding local security and economic challenges.

Over 130 Days in Captivity: During a protest held in Askira/Uba on Monday, parents reported that the children had been held captive for over 130 days following their abduction on May 15, 2026.

Mass Abduction Numbers: Families and school authorities confirmed that 44 children were taken from Mussa Ward, alongside another 36 children abducted from schools in Lassa.

The Six-Day Ultimatum: The Chairman of the abducted pupils’ parents, Ishaku Suya, warned that parents are ready to occupy the streets of the Presidential Villa if President Bola Tinubu fails to rescue their children in the same manner the government intervened for Oyo children.

Involvement of Toddlers: The acting District Head of Lassa, Wadzani Hammatu, noted that the situation is unbearable, emphasizing that some of the kidnapped victims are helpless toddlers between one and three years old.

Call from Traditional Rulers: The Emir of Uba, Ali Samaila Mamza, appealed to federal, state, and local governments to step up rescue efforts and bring the children safely home.

Legislative Pressure: The federal lawmaker representing the constituency, Midala Usman Balami, condemned the prolonged silence, stating that he has already raised the issue on the floor of the National Assembly and will continue pushing for government intervention.

Oyo Airport Funding: Wike rejected claims that he is the sole beneficiary of President Tinubu’s goodwill, revealing that the President provided Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, with ₦50 billion to expand the state’s airport.

Diplomatic Appointments: He highlighted that former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu is serving as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, while former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi is the Ambassador to Greece.

Ortom’s Stance: Wike noted that former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom is the only member of the group who declined a formal position, choosing instead to focus on working for the President.

Party Clearance: Addressing criticism over his own appointment, Wike explained that before accepting a ministerial nomination, he formally consulted his state governor, as well as party leadership at the state, zonal, and national levels.

Unanimous Support: According to Wike, all party stakeholders gave their unanimous backing for him to join the Federal Government to help drive positive change, making claims of solo benefits unfounded.