The managing director of the Hadejia‑Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his decisive personal intervention in the successful rescue of the abducted students from Kebbi and Niger.

Mr Bichi, in a statement on Tuesday in Kano, appreciated Mr Tinubu for demonstrating exceptional leadership and deep concern for the security and welfare of Nigerian citizens.

“We must acknowledge and sincerely appreciate President Bola Tinubu for his great concern and the bold moves taken in rescuing our precious children. History shows that while past administrations often limited their response to strong condemnations, Tinubu went a step further by personally aborting an important international trip to Johannesburg to command the rescue mission. This hands‑on approach sets a new, proactive standard of leadership at the highest level,” he said.

Mr Bichi noted a concerning trend in public discourse, in which tragedies were met with swift condemnation of the government and the president, often accompanied by accusations of inaction.

“It has become a pattern that when such heartbreaking tragedies strike, the focus is predominantly on blaming the government and the president for allowing it to happen or for perceived delays in response.

“However, there is a palpable reluctance to extend credit where it is due when the same President and our security forces, especially the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, demonstrated courage, dedication and ultimately averted a greater catastrophe by rescuing the victims,” Mr Bichi added.

He said that while holding leadership accountable was a vital aspect of democracy, fairness demands that exemplary acts of courage and successful operations receive national acknowledgement and support.

“Such recognition strengthens national morale and motivates security agencies. The successful rescue of these students is a victory for our nation, made possible by the president’s direct involvement and the tireless efforts of our security personnel.

“Let us be a people who are balanced in our engagement and constructive in criticism, but also generous in praise where praise is earned. This is essential for building a united front against the challenges we face,” he added.

Mr Bichi reaffirmed the authority’s commitment, under his leadership, to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government, particularly in fostering sustainable development and security in communities within its operational zone.

(NAN)