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The Defence Headquarters has released a video showing the operation that led to the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after spending more than 50 days in captivity.
The footage, shared on the Defence Headquarters‘ official X account on Sunday, captured highlights of the coordinated security operation that secured the victims’ freedom.
Defence Headquarters Secures Rescue of Kidnapped Oyo Students and Teachers.
Through effective inter-agency collaboration and intelligence-driven operations, the abducted victims in Oyo State were safely rescued. The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain steadfast in safeguarding lives… pic.twitter.com/l6wWGpy5ty
— DEFENCE HQ NIGERIA (@DHQNigeria) July 12, 2026
According to the military, the rescue was achieved through intelligence-led operations and close collaboration among security agencies.
“Through effective inter-agency collaboration and intelligence-driven operations, the abducted victims in Oyo State were safely rescued. The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain steadfast in safeguarding lives and national security,” the Defence Headquarters stated.
The pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area before they were rescued last Friday during a joint operation by security agencies.
Following the operation, the Presidency disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested, while several others were neutralised.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the arrested suspects are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services for further investigation.
President Bola Tinubu also identified the Ansaru terrorist group as being responsible for the abduction.
In a statement issued after the rescue, the President expressed relief over the safe return of the victims and commended the military and other security agencies for their courage, discipline and professionalism during the operation.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating terrorism and other security threats, stressing that Nigeria would continue to pursue those responsible for violent crimes and protect the lives and property of its citizens.
