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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja and Niyi Joseph, Ilorin
After harrowing months in captivity, President Bola Tinubu, yesterday owelcomed the rescue of 308 abducted Nigerians in coordinated security operations across Niger and Kwara states, describing the mission as evidence of the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and inter-agency collaboration.
The President also directed security agencies to strengthen early warning mechanisms, deepen community-level intelligence gathering and enhance rapid response capabilities to prevent future abductions across the country.
The rescued victims comprised 163 persons abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and another 145 kidnapped in Niger State.
According to a statement issued by the Special Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during what it described as the largest same-day rescue operation ever conducted by a joint security team.
The operation was coordinated by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) with personnel drawn from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
Commending the security agencies for the successful operation, Tinubu praised their courage, professionalism and seamless 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 disclosed that the rescued citizens are currently receiving first aid and medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment.
It added that after completing medical evaluations, the victims would be handed over to the governments of their respective states for rehabilitation, comprehensive care and reunification with their families.
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While celebrating the rescue, Tinubu stressed that preventing future attacks must remain a national priority.
He consequently directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to immediately reinforce early warning systems, improve intelligence gathering at the community level and strengthen rapid response capabilities to forestall similar incidents nationwide.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, assuring Nigerians that the government would continue to intensify efforts to eliminate security threats, protect vulnerable communities and restore lasting peace across the country.
The Kwara State Government confirmed the victims’ release yesterday. However, it did not disclose how they regained their freedom, leaving unanswered questions over whether a ransom was paid or if the operation was solely the result of security efforts.
Announcing the development on its official social media platforms, the state government praised President Bola Tinubu, security agencies and all those who contributed to the successful operation.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Communications, Ibraheem Abdullateef, also confirmed the development, describing it as a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in the state.
“Kwara State Government is happy to share that the security forces have rescued the people who were kidnapped at Woro community in Kwara North,” Abdullateef said.
He added: “Kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, security forces and everyone who played a role in this huge feat. We are grateful.”
The victims’ release has sparked celebrations among families and residents of Woro community, who have lived in fear and uncertainty since the devastating February attack that claimed more than 200 lives, displaced many residents and left hundreds of women and children in the hands of their abductors.
Authorities are yet to provide details on the health condition of the rescued victims, the circumstances surrounding their release or the rehabilitation and reunification process that will precede their return to their families and communities.
