President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in separate attacks in Niger and Kwara states, describing the operation as a major success in the country’s ongoing fight against insecurity.
The Presidency said the victims—163 abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and 145 from Niger State—were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State.
In a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the operation was described as the largest same-day rescue ever carried out by Nigeria’s joint security forces.
According to the statement, the rescue followed a coordinated, intelligence-led operation conducted by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), with support from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.
President Tinubu praised the security agencies for what he described as exceptional bravery, professionalism and effective inter-agency collaboration.
“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 Presidency said the rescued victims are currently receiving first aid and medical treatment at the Wawa Cantonment medical facility before being handed over to the governments of Niger and Kwara states for rehabilitation and reunification with their families after medical evaluation.
While celebrating the successful rescue, President Tinubu directed security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent future abductions across the country.
He ordered the immediate strengthening of early warning systems, improved community-based intelligence gathering, and faster emergency response mechanisms to tackle emerging security threats.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to defeating insecurity, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring lasting peace across Nigeria.
