Tinubu Extols Rescue Of 308 Kwara, Niger Kidnap Victims

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the nation's ongoing fight against insecurity.

Of those rescued, 163 were abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 were kidnapped in Niger State.

The victims were freed from the Kainji Lake National Park forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State following a coordinated, intelligence-led operation by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.

The operation represents the largest same-day rescue of kidnapped victims ever recorded by the joint security team.

President Tinubu commended the leadership and personnel of the participating security agencies for their professionalism, courage, and effective inter-agency collaboration, noting that the success of the operation reflects the growing capacity of Nigeria's security architecture.

"The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the increasing effectiveness of collaboration among our security services. I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting the lives of Nigerians," the President said.

The rescued citizens are currently receiving first aid and medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment. Upon completion of their medical assessments, they will be handed over to their respective state governments for rehabilitation, continued care, and reunification with their families.

While celebrating the successful rescue, President Tinubu stressed the need to consolidate recent gains by strengthening the country's security infrastructure to prevent similar incidents.

He directed all security agencies and relevant stakeholders to reinforce early warning systems, deepen community-based intelligence gathering, and enhance rapid response capabilities to improve the protection of vulnerable communities nationwide.

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration's unwavering commitment to eliminating security threats, safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians, and restoring lasting peace and stability across the country.