President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of 308 abducted Nigerians from forest hideouts in Niger State, describing the operation as evidence of improved coordination among the country’s security agencies.
The rescued victims include 163 persons abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and 145 others from Niger State.
The victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during what the Presidency described as the largest same-day rescue operation ever conducted by a joint security team.
The operation was coordinated by the National Counter Terrorism Centre with support from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force.
Commending the security agencies, Tinubu praised their professionalism and collaboration in securing the victims’ release.
“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 also expressed appreciation to the leadership and personnel of the participating security agencies for what he described as their courage and dedication.
The Presidency said the rescued citizens are receiving first aid and medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment before being handed over to the governments of Kwara and Niger states for rehabilitation and reunification with their families.
While celebrating the successful operation, Tinubu directed security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent future abductions across the country.
“I direct 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.”
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and protecting lives and property.
“My administration remains steadfast in its resolve to eliminate security threats, protect vulnerable communities and restore lasting peace across every corner of the nation,” he said.
The rescue operation comes as security agencies continue sustained offensives against terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups operating in parts of the country.