President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the country’s fight against insecurity.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) for the intelligence-led operation that secured the victims’ freedom.
According to the statement, 163 of those rescued were abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 were rescued from Niger State.
The victims were freed from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State following what the Presidency described as the largest same-day rescue operation ever conducted by the joint security team.
President Tinubu praised the security agencies for their bravery, professionalism and seamless inter-agency collaboration.
“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 Presidency disclosed that the rescued victims are receiving first aid and other essential medical care at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment. After completing medical evaluations, they will be handed over to their respective state governments for rehabilitation and reunification with their families.
While celebrating the successful rescue, Tinubu directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to strengthen early warning mechanisms, improve community-level intelligence gathering and enhance rapid response capabilities to prevent similar incidents.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating security threats, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring lasting peace across the country.