President Bola Tinubu has hailed the rescue of 308 Nigerians kidnapped in separate attacks in Niger and Kwara states, describing the operation as a major victory for the country’s security forces.
In a statement made available to The News Chronicle by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday, Tinubu commended the security agencies for what he described as the largest same-day rescue operation ever carried out by a joint security team in Nigeria.
The rescued victims comprise 163 persons abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and another 145 kidnapped from communities in Niger State.
They were freed from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation led by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), with the support of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.
President Tinubu praised the leadership and personnel of the participating security agencies for their bravery, professionalism, and seamless inter-agency collaboration, which he said made the successful operation possible.
“The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services. I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives,” the President said.
The rescued victims are currently receiving first aid and medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment. They are expected to be handed over to their respective state governments after medical evaluations for rehabilitation and reunification with their families.
While celebrating the successful rescue, Tinubu directed security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent future abductions by strengthening early warning systems, expanding community-based intelligence gathering, and improving rapid response capabilities nationwide.
He also reassured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to defeating security threats, protecting vulnerable communities, and restoring lasting peace across the country.
