Trending 
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has commended security operatives for rescuing 308 abducted victims during coordinated operations across Kwara and Niger states.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said 163 of those rescued were abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 others were rescued after being kidnapped in Niger State.
The victims were freed from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during what the Presidency described as an intelligence-led operation coordinated by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), with support from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
“It was the largest rescue operation ever carried out on the same day by the joint security team,” Onanuga said.
Tinubu praised the security agencies for their coordinated efforts, describing the operation as evidence of improving collaboration among Nigeria’s security institutions.
“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 medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment before being reunited with their families.
“Upon completion of their medical evaluations, they will be formally handed over to their state governments for comprehensive care and reunification with their families,” Onanuga added.
While welcoming the rescue, Tinubu said more must be done to prevent future abductions.
He directed security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to immediately strengthen early warning mechanisms, enhance community-level intelligence gathering, and improve rapid response capabilities to avert similar incidents across the country.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity nationwide.
“His administration remains steadfast in its resolve to eliminate security threats, protect vulnerable communities, and restore lasting peace across every corner of the nation,” the statement said.
STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU WELCOMES RESCUE OF 308 ABDUCTED CITIZENS IN KWARA, NIGER STATES, CALLS FOR STRONGER EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu warmly welcomes the successful rescue of 308 Nigerian citizens who were abducted in different… pic.twitter.com/5J1ZMaJ2dE
— Bayo Onanuga, OON, CON (@aonanuga1956) August 5, 2026
