Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has expressed his approval following the successful rescue of 308 Nigerians who were abducted in separate incidents in Niger and Kwara.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this development was announced in a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, highlighting the rescue of 163 individuals from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara and 145 from Niger. The victims were liberated from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger through a coordinated intelligence-driven operation.
The operation was a collaborative effort involving the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force. The presidency described it as the largest single-day rescue operation ever conducted by the joint security team.
President Tinubu praised the leadership and personnel of the involved security agencies for their courage, professionalism, and effective cooperation. He remarked, “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 the lives of Nigerians.”
The presidency further noted that the rescued individuals are currently receiving first aid and medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment. After medical evaluations, the victims will be handed over to their respective state governments for further care and reunification with their families.
In his statement, Tinubu emphasized the importance of strengthening national security infrastructure to prevent future incidents. He directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to enhance early warning systems, improve community intelligence gathering, and strengthen rapid response mechanisms.
President Tinubu reassured Nigerians of his administration’s determination to eliminate security threats and restore peace across the country, reaffirming his government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and ensuring the safety of all citizens.