Retired and serving members of staff of the University of Ibadan on Wednesday donated about N6 million to schoolchildren, teachers and bereaved families affected by the coordinated abduction attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The Punch reported that the financial support was presented to the beneficiaries at the Office of the Inspector-General of Education, Ogbomoso Zone.
Chairman of the University of Ibadan Ad Hoc Committee on Support for Oriire Rescued Abductees, Prof. Ezekiel Ayoola, who led the delegation, said the initiative underscored the university community’s commitment to standing with the victims during their recovery.
PUNCH Online had earlier reported that more than 40 pupils and teachers were abducted on Friday, May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; L.A. Primary School; and Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esienle.
The victims eventually regained their freedom on Friday, July 10, 2026, after spending 56 days in captivity.
Ayoola explained that the N6 million was raised through voluntary donations from the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, the Vice-Chancellor of Bowen University, Prof. Jonathan Babalola, professors and early-career academics.
According to him, the intervention is meant to complement ongoing rehabilitation efforts while assuring the victims that they remain in the thoughts of the academic community.
Ayoola said, “Our gathering today is both sombre and celebratory. It reminds us of the insecurity confronting our nation, but it also celebrates the triumph of humanity over terror.”
He noted that despite regaining their freedom, many of the rescued victims were still dealing with psychological trauma, stressing that “sustained emotional, educational and financial support would be required to help them rebuild their lives.”
He also applauded the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and security agencies for working together to secure the release of the abductees.
Ayoola specifically commended the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy Special Forces, Nigerian Air Force Special Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, National Intelligence Agency, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Office of the National Security Adviser and the National Counter Terrorism Centre for their contributions to the rescue mission.
The university don further praised the National Assembly, especially the Senate, for extending financial support to bereaved families and security personnel affected by the attack.
Earlier, the Inspector-General of Education, Ogbomoso Zone, Olubunmi Adisa, described the donation as a shining example of compassion and social responsibility.
“The academic staff of the University of Ibadan have redefined the relationship between the town and the gown. You have set another pace in humanitarian service. With this gesture, there is hope for Nigeria,” he said.
During the event, Prof. Adenike Emeke, Prof. Chinedum Babalola and Prof. Aina Adeogun formally presented the donations to the rescued teachers, pupils and widows of those who lost their lives in the attack.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Prof. Babalola said the gesture symbolised the academic community’s compassion and solidarity.
“We are standing with you to let you know that you are not alone. We rejoice over your safe return and pray that God will continue to strengthen you.”
