By Eshioromeh Sebastian
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed the successful rescue of 308 Nigerian citizens abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states, describing the operation as evidence of growing synergy among the country’s security agencies.
According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, one hundred and sixty-three of those rescued were abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 were kidnapped in Niger State .
The victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State following a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), involving personnel from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force .
The Presidency described it as “the largest rescue operation ever carried out on the same day by the joint security team” .
President Commends Security Agencies
President Tinubu expressed deep appreciation to the leadership and personnel of the security agencies for their bravery, seamless inter-agency collaboration, and dedication, which made the recovery of the victims possible.
“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 stated .
The rescued citizens are currently receiving first aid and essential medical care at the medical facility at Wawa Cantonment . Upon completion of their medical evaluations, they will be formally handed over to their state governments for comprehensive care and reunification with their families .
Tinubu Orders Strengthened Early Warning Systems
While applauding the return of the victims, President Tinubu emphasised the imperative of bolstering national security infrastructure to prevent future occurrences .
He directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to immediately “strengthen early warning mechanisms, enhance community-level intelligence gathering, and improve rapid response capabilities to avert similar incidents across the country” .
President Tinubu reassured all Nigerians that his administration remains steadfast in its resolve to eliminate security threats, protect vulnerable communities, and restore lasting peace across every corner of the nation.
The rescued victims, who had been in captivity since a deadly attack on Woro and Nuku communities on February 3, 2026, are expected to be handed over to their respective state governments after completing medical evaluations at the Wawa Cantonment facility .
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