Tinubu Commends Largest Single-Day Rescue of 308 Abductees in Kwara, Niger

On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the successful liberation of 308 individuals who had been kidnapped in separate incidents across Kwara and Niger states. He characterized this operation as the most extensive single-day rescue effort ever executed by Nigeria's security apparatus. Furthermore, the President instructed security formations to promptly reinforce their early warning systems to avert similar large-scale abductions in the future.

According to a press release dated Wednesday from Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, among the freed captives, 163 were taken from the Woro Community in Kwara State's Kaiama Local Government Area. The remaining 145 individuals were seized during a distinct incident within Niger State.

The statement further detailed that the recovery of these victims took place in the Kainji Lake National Park forest, situated in the New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State. This achievement resulted from a meticulously planned, intelligence-driven operation that saw the collaboration of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.

In his response to the positive outcome, President Tinubu remarked, “The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services.” He added, “I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives.”

It was also stated that the liberated individuals are currently receiving initial medical care and attention at a facility located inside Wawa Cantonment. Following comprehensive medical evaluations, the statement indicated that the victims would be transferred to their respective state governments for ongoing support and eventual reunion with their families.

While praising the successful operation, President Tinubu underscored the necessity of reinforcing the nation's overall security framework to deter future occurrences of such abductions. He issued directives to security agencies and other pertinent bodies to bolster early warning systems, intensify intelligence gathering at the community level, and upgrade rapid response capacities across the country.

The President further reiterated his administration's unwavering dedication to combating insecurity and ensuring the safety of susceptible communities. He affirmed, “My administration remains steadfast in its resolve to eliminate security threats, protect vulnerable communities, and restore lasting peace across every corner of the nation.”

Mass kidnappings persist as a significant security concern in segments of the North-Central region. Armed groups have consistently leveraged the dense forest areas surrounding the Kainji Lake National Park, which extends across portions of Niger and Kwara states, as sanctuaries for carrying out their abduction activities.