President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the successful rescue of 308 kidnapped victims in separate operations across Kwara and Niger states, describing the feat as a clear demonstration of the growing synergy and operational effectiveness of Nigeria’s security agencies.
The President also directed security and intelligence agencies to strengthen early warning systems, enhance intelligence gathering, deepen community-based intelligence, and improve rapid response mechanisms to prevent future kidnapping incidents across the country.
The commendation was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the Presidency, 163 victims abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and another 145 kidnapped in Niger State were rescued during an intelligence-led operation conducted in the Kainji Lake National Park forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State.
The operation, coordinated by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), involved personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force. It is regarded as one of the largest mass rescue operations of kidnap victims carried out in Nigeria in a single day.
The rescued victims are currently receiving first aid and medical care at Wawa Cantonment before being handed over to the governments of Kwara and Niger states for rehabilitation and reunification with their families.
President Tinubu praised the security personnel involved in the operation for their courage and professionalism.
“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.
He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to tackle insecurity and ensure the safety of Nigerians, directing security agencies to intensify preventive measures against kidnapping and other criminal activities.
“I have directed them to strengthen early-warning systems, deepen community intelligence and improve rapid response across the country,” Tinubu stated.
The President further vowed that terrorists and criminal elements would continue to face sustained pressure from security forces.
“We will continue to pursue those who threaten our people and do everything necessary to keep every Nigerian community safe. There will be no hiding place for terrorists in Nigeria,” he declared.
While celebrating the successful rescue, the Presidency did not disclose whether any ransom was paid, if suspects were arrested, or whether there were casualties among security personnel, kidnappers, or the rescued victims during the operation.
Security analysts say such details will be important in evaluating the broader impact of the operation on Nigeria’s counter-kidnapping efforts.
The rescue represents another significant milestone in ongoing efforts by Nigerian security agencies to dismantle kidnapping networks and restore public confidence in the nation’s security architecture.
