The Nigerian Army has confirmed the rescue of 44 pupils and teachers kidnapped from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State by troops following an intelligence-led operation in the Old Oyo National Park and other parts of the country.
This was ontained in a statement by Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations on Friday
According to Danjuma the operation was conducted on July 10, 2026, and led by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser through the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Defence Headquarters, and special forces from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, NIA, NSCDC, as well as local vigilantes, hunters and Amotekun.
The victims were abducted by terrorists on May 15, 2026. According to the Army, the month-long operation focused on identifying the kingpins behind the abduction, dismantling their networks, and bursting their logistics links, informants and hideouts within the Old Oyo National Park forest.
Multiple arrests were made within Oyo State and in other states. The Army said the arrests disorganised the group and exerted pressure that led to the unconditional release of the pupils and teachers. Further operations are to be conducted.
The Army stated that the operations were carefully planned to avoid collateral damage and ensure the safe rescue of the children and teachers. It, however, noted that there were some casualties on the part of security forces.
The rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunion with their families.
Major General Nnebeife thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for strategic guidance and support, and also appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, service chiefs, the Inspector General of Police and heads of other security agencies for their support and coordination.
He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to safeguard lives and property across the country.
