President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states.
The rescued victims comprise 163 people abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and 145 others taken captive in Niger State.
The victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State following a coordinated, intelligence-led operation conducted by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, in collaboration with personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force.
The operation was described as the largest single-day rescue operation carried out by the joint security team.
Reacting to the development, President Tinubu commended the security agencies for their bravery, inter-agency cooperation and commitment to securing the lives of Nigerians.
“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 essential medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment.
Following the completion of their medical evaluations, the victims will be handed over to their respective state governments for further care and reunification with their families.
While welcoming the safe return of the abducted Nigerians, Tinubu stressed the need to strengthen the country’s security infrastructure to prevent similar incidents in the future.
He directed security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to immediately improve early warning systems, strengthen community-level intelligence gathering and enhance rapid response mechanisms to prevent further attacks.
The President also reassured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to tackling security threats, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring lasting peace across the country.
