Tinubu Hails Rescue Of 308 Kidnap Victims, Orders Stronger Early Warning Systems
By Tams Jonah, ABUJA – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted during separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the country’s fight against insecurity.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, 163 of the rescued victims were abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 others were rescued from Niger State.
The victims were freed from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State following a coordinated intelligence-led operation by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), working alongside personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.
The Presidency described the mission as the largest same-day rescue operation ever carried out by the joint security team.
President Tinubu commended the leadership and personnel of the participating security agencies for their courage, professionalism, and effective inter-agency collaboration, noting that the success of the operation reflects the growing efficiency of Nigeria’s security architecture.
“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 rescued citizens are currently receiving first aid and other essential medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment. After undergoing medical evaluations, they will be handed over to the governments of their respective states for rehabilitation, continued care, and reunification with their families.
While celebrating the successful rescue, President Tinubu directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to strengthen early warning systems, improve community-based intelligence gathering, and enhance rapid response capabilities to prevent similar incidents across the country.
He also reassured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to tackling security challenges, protecting vulnerable communities, and restoring lasting peace across the nation.
