By ZAKAA LAZARUS
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Nigeria’s security forces for rescuing 308 abducted citizens in a coordinated intelligence-led operation, describing it as the largest same-day rescue mission ever conducted by joint security teams.
The President, in a statement from the Presidency on Tuesday, said the successful operation was a testament to the growing effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in the fight against insecurity.
According to the Presidency, the victims were freed from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during a joint operation led by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC).
Personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force participated in the mission.
The rescued victims comprise 163 persons abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and 145 others abducted from Niger State.
President Tinubu praised the leadership and personnel of the participating agencies for their bravery, professionalism, and seamless coordination.
“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 noted that the operation underscores the increasing efficiency of Nigeria’s intelligence-driven security architecture.
The Presidency said the rescued victims are currently receiving first aid and essential medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment.
Following medical evaluations, they will be handed over to their respective state governments for rehabilitation and reunification with their families.
While celebrating the rescue, President Tinubu directed security agencies to intensify efforts at preventing future abductions by: Strengthening early warning systems, enhancing community-based intelligence gathering, and improving rapid response capabilities nationwide.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating security threats, protecting vulnerable communities, and restoring lasting peace across the country.
Security sources said the Kainji Lake National Park Forest has become a major hideout for kidnapping gangs operating across the Kwara-Niger-Kebbi axis. The successful raid is expected to disrupt their logistics and deny them freedom of action in the area.
