Rescue operation ongoing to free kidnapped Oyo students – Army Chief

Nigerian troops are actively engaged in operations to secure the safe release of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State on May 15. Army Chief Waidi Shaibu stated that significant progress is being made in the rescue efforts, expressing confidence that the victims will be reunited with their families.

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Operations are currently ongoing to rescue those children abducted in Oyo State, and we are making tremendous progress.

Shaibu made these remarks during an interactive session with media executives in Port Harcourt, as part of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration. He detailed the army's ongoing commitment to addressing security challenges across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. In the Northeast, operations under 'Hadin Kai' have yielded substantial results, including the elimination of a high-profile Islamic State commander, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, in collaboration with U.S. partners. Over 1,872 insurgents have been neutralized, and many terrorists have surrendered.

The army chief also reported successes in the Northwest through 'Operation Fansan Yamma,' which has degraded bandit groups. In the North-central region, operations like 'Enduring Peace,' 'Whirl Stroke,' and the new 'Savannah Shield' have improved security in several states. The South-east has seen considerable security improvements, with no disruptions reported during recent Christmas celebrations. The South-south has experienced increased oil output due to successful operations against illegal bunkering and oil theft.

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Operation Hadin Kai has neutralised over 1,872 insurgents, while many terrorists have surrendered to troops.

Beyond ongoing rescue and counter-insurgency operations, the Nigerian Army is focusing on bolstering its personnel. President Bola Tinubu has approved measures to strengthen military manpower, including the establishment of a new Nigerian Army Depot in Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi. This expansion will bring the total number of army depots to three, with the facilities in Zaria, Osogbo, and Amasiri-Edda expected to recruit and train 28,000 young Nigerians to enhance operational capacity nationwide.

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I recently directed the recruitment of 28,000 young Nigerians to enhance manpower for our various operations across the country.