The Association of Proprietors of Private Media Establishment of Nigeria (APPMEN) has strongly condemned the persistent abduction of children, students and other innocent Nigerians across the country, describing the trend as a grave threat to the nation’s future and security.
In a statement issued on Saturday, May 30, 2026, the association expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity, lamenting that schools, communities and major highways have increasingly become targets for criminal elements.
APPMEN stated that the continuous kidnapping of children and students is heartbreaking and unacceptable, noting that every abducted child represents a stolen future, while every traumatised family reflects the growing failure of the nation’s security architecture.
The association stressed that no media business, democracy or meaningful development can thrive in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
Consequently, APPMEN called for the immediate and unconditional release of all persons currently being held captive by kidnappers across the country.
The media proprietors also urged the Federal Government to declare a national emergency on insecurity, with particular focus on securing schools, rural communities and major highways.
“Schools must be safe zones, not killing fields,” the association stated.
APPMEN further demanded intelligence-driven security operations and stronger collaboration among security agencies to dismantle kidnapping syndicates and bring their sponsors to justice.
The association also called for the speedy prosecution of all arrested suspects, insisting that swift justice would serve as a deterrent to other criminal elements.
In addition, APPMEN charged its member stations, newspapers, online platforms, radio and television organisations to maintain professionalism in their reportage by publishing only verified information, avoiding sensationalism and using their platforms to promote solutions that inspire hope among Nigerians.
Describing the abduction of children as a direct attack on Nigeria’s future, APPMEN vowed not to remain silent while citizens continue to live under constant threat.
The association reaffirmed its solidarity with grieving parents, affected schools and communities battling insecurity, declaring that the time has come for decisive action.
“Enough is enough. Secure Nigeria. Bring back our children,” the statement concluded.
