By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has commended Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of teachers and pupils abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the operation as a major victory for intelligence led security operations.
In a statement issued by the ministry, the minister praised the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the National Security Adviser’s Tactical Team and other security agencies for the coordinated operation that led to the safe rescue of the victims on July 10.
The rescued victims had been kidnapped from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele and L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esinele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Musa described the operation as a model of professionalism, courage and inter agency collaboration, noting that the seamless coordination among the various security institutions underscored the growing effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations in tackling insecurity.
“The successful rescue reflects the deep dedication and sacrifices of our personnel, who continue to work tirelessly under challenging conditions to safeguard Nigerians and defend our nation’s territorial integrity,” he said.
The Defence Minister, however, paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives during the operation, describing them as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
He extended condolences to the families of the fallen officers and assured them of the Federal Government’s commitment to their welfare.
Musa reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the nation’s military and law enforcement agencies through sustained investments in modern military equipment, intelligence capabilities, specialised training and enhanced inter-agency cooperation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, the government’s continued support is already producing positive results in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality across the country.
Additionally, the minister urged security commanders nationwide to sustain the momentum and replicate the same level of coordination and tactical excellence in ongoing operations.
He also thanked the Oyo State Government and residents for their cooperation during the rescue mission, while calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.
The minister reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at building a safer and more secure Nigeria.
