….The Rescued Victims Comprise 163 Abducted in Kwara, 145 in Niger
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of 308 Nigerian citizens abducted in separate attacks in Niger and Kwara states.
The rescued victims comprised 163 persons abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and 145 others kidnapped in Niger State.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement on Wednesday said the victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State.
According to the statement, the rescue followed a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, NCTC.
The operation involved personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services, DSS, and the Nigeria Police Force. It was described as the largest rescue operation carried out on the same day by the joint security team.
Commending the security agencies, Tinubu praised their courage, professionalism, and seamless inter-agency cooperation, saying the successful operation underscored the increasing efficiency of Nigeria’s security architecture.
“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 rescued victims are currently receiving first aid and other essential medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment. Following medical evaluation, they will be handed over to the governments of their respective states for rehabilitation and reunification with their families.
While celebrating the successful rescue, Tinubu stressed that more proactive measures were needed to prevent future attacks. He directed security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to reinforce early warning systems, improve intelligence gathering at the community level, and strengthen rapid response mechanisms nationwide.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating security threats, protecting vulnerable communities, and restoring lasting peace across the country.
He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to support intelligence-driven operations and strengthen collaboration among security agencies to safeguard lives and property.
