The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for urgent and coordinated action by security agencies to secure the immediate release of five students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, Ogun State, who were reportedly abducted on Wednesday.

In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Oladimeji Uthman, the NANS National Headquarters said the incident occurred at a private student hostel along Paraga Road, Ipara, on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, when suspected armed bandits attacked the facility.

NANS commended the Students’ Union Government of Gateway ICT Polytechnic for providing timely clarification on the incident and urging students to rely on verified information.

The student body described the attack as another reminder of the growing insecurity around campuses and in off-campus communities across the country.

NANS called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, the Department of State Services and local security formations to deploy all available resources towards the immediate rescue of the abducted students and the arrest of the perpetrators.

The association further urged the management of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, in collaboration with the Ogun State Government, host community leaders and security stakeholders, to strengthen security around the institution.

NANS also called for a proper assessment of off-campus hostels to ensure that students reside only in safe and secure environments.

It appealed to students to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, avoid spreading unverified information and observe personal security measures while rescue operations continue.

NANS further stated that it stood firmly with the affected students, their families, the polytechnic management and the Students’ Union Government during the period.

The association, however, prayed for the safe and speedy return of the abducted students while reaffirming its commitment to protecting the lives and welfare of Nigerian students nationwide.

“While we are relieved that no student lost their life during the attack, the abduction of five students remains a grave concern that requires urgent and coordinated action from all relevant security agencies.

“The security and welfare of Nigerian students remain non-negotiable. It is unacceptable that students who leave their homes in pursuit of education continue to face threats to their lives.

“We remain committed to monitoring developments and will continue to engage relevant authorities until our colleagues are rescued safely and reunited with their loved ones,” the statement added.