President commends security agencies for largest same-day rescue mission, orders stronger intelligence and early warning systems.
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 breakthrough in the country’s fight against insecurity.
The rescued victims comprise 163 residents of Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and 145 persons abducted from communities in Niger State. They were freed from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during a coordinated intelligence-led operation involving the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency described the mission as the largest same-day rescue operation carried out by the joint security team.
President Tinubu commended the security agencies for their bravery, professionalism and effective inter-agency collaboration, saying the successful operation reflected the growing efficiency of Nigeria’s security architecture in responding to criminal threats.
The Presidency disclosed that the rescued victims are receiving first aid and medical attention at the Wawa Cantonment Medical Facility before being handed over to the Niger and Kwara State governments for rehabilitation and reunification with their families after medical evaluations.
The President also directed security agencies to strengthen early warning systems, improve community-based intelligence gathering and enhance rapid response capabilities to prevent similar attacks.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating security threats, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring lasting peace across the country.