Tinubu hails rescue of 308 Kwara, Niger abductees

President Bola Tinubu has commended Nigerian security agencies for successfully rescuing 308 individuals abducted in separate incidents in Kwara and Niger states. He described the operation as the largest single-day rescue mission in the nation's history and directed security forces to bolster early warning mechanisms to prevent future mass abductions.

The rescue operation, described as coordinated and intelligence-led, involved the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force. It resulted in the liberation of 163 people abducted from Woro Community in Kwara State and 145 others kidnapped in Niger State. The victims were found in the Kainji Lake National Park forest, a known hideout for armed groups operating in the North-Central region.

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The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services.

"The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services," President Tinubu stated. He praised the "gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives." The rescued individuals are currently receiving first aid and medical attention at the Wawa Cantonment before being handed over to their respective state governments for further care and family reunification.

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration's commitment to tackling insecurity and protecting vulnerable communities. He stressed the importance of reinforcing the country's broader security architecture, including improving community-based intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities. Large-scale abductions have remained a significant security challenge in parts of Nigeria, with armed groups exploiting the dense forests of the Kainji Lake National Park for kidnapping operations.

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I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives.