By Ayo Ayodele
President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the country’s fight against insecurity.
The President praised the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) for executing what has been described as the largest same-day rescue operation ever carried out by a joint security team.
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 kidnapped 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 during a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation involving multiple security agencies.
Commending the security personnel for their courage and professionalism, President Tinubu said the successful operation underscored the growing effectiveness of intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration in tackling criminal activities.
“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 victims are currently receiving first aid and medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment. After completing medical evaluations, they will be handed over to the governments of their respective states for rehabilitation and reunification with their families.
While celebrating the rescue, Tinubu stressed the need to strengthen measures aimed at preventing future abductions. He directed security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to immediately enhance early warning systems, improve community-based intelligence gathering, and strengthen rapid response capabilities across the country.
The President also reassured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to eliminating security threats, protecting vulnerable communities, and restoring lasting peace nationwide.