By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the rescue of 308 abducted Nigerians by security agencies in Kwara and Niger states. The President made the statement on Thursday after a joint security operation freed the victims from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in Niger State. He praised the security agencies for the successful mission and directed them to strengthen early warning systems, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance rapid response efforts to prevent future attacks.
308 Victims Freed in Joint Security Operation
According to the Presidency, 163 of the rescued victims were abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State. The remaining 145 victims were rescued from different locations in Niger State.
Security personnel located and rescued the victims during a coordinated intelligence-led operation inside the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State.
The operation involved the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.
Officials described the mission as the largest same-day rescue operation ever conducted by the joint security team.
Tinubu Commends Security Agencies
President Tinubu praised the courage and professionalism of the security personnel. He also commended the seamless collaboration among the participating agencies.
He said the successful operation reflects the growing effectiveness of Nigeria’s security architecture.
“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.
Rescued Victims Receiving Medical Care
The rescued citizens are currently receiving first aid and medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment.
After completing medical evaluations, authorities will hand them over to the governments of Kwara and Niger states. The state governments will then facilitate rehabilitation and reunite the victims with their families.
President Orders Stronger Early Warning Systems
Furthermore, President Tinubu stressed the need to prevent similar incidents across the country.
He directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to strengthen early warning mechanisms immediately.
The President also ordered improved community intelligence gathering and faster emergency response capabilities to tackle security threats before they escalate.
Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to National Security
President Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to defeating criminal groups and restoring peace nationwide.
He pledged continued support for security agencies to protect vulnerable communities and safeguard lives across the country.
