Fresh Hope in Borno as 11 Kidnapped Women Regain Freedom Days After Rescue of 416 Captives

Barely 24 hours after the rescue of 416 residents of Ngoshe community in Borno State from Boko Haram captivity, another wave of relief swept through the state as 11 women abducted seven months ago regained their freedom.

The women, who were kidnapped while on a fishing expedition in Dille community, Askira/Uba Local Government Area, were reunited with their families following sustained military operations by troops under Operation HADIN KAI.

Their return sparked emotional scenes in the community, with family members shedding tears of joy after months of uncertainty and anguish.

According to community sources, the women underwent medical examinations and health assessments before being reunited with their loved ones as part of post-captivity procedures.

It was also gathered that two of the victims had escaped during their captivity, while two others were earlier released by their abductors before the military operation secured the freedom of the remaining women.

Confirming the development, Chairman of Askira/Uba Local Government Area, Mada Saidu, expressed gratitude over their safe return and commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their efforts.

“We thank God for the safe return of our daughters and wives. We also appreciate the Nigerian Army, the Borno State Government and all security agencies for their commitment and sacrifices toward ensuring their freedom and safety,” he said.

Ngoshe Community Rejects Claims of Private Negotiation

Meanwhile, the Ngoshe Stakeholders Forum distanced itself from claims by a group known as the Borno South Youth Alliance, which allegedly took credit for facilitating the release of the 416 captives rescued from Ngoshe and surrounding communities.

Speaking at a press conference in Maiduguri, Chairman of the forum, Prof. Suleiman Bello, said the group and its alleged coordinator, Samaila Kaigama, were unknown to the community and had no mandate to speak on its behalf.

“We wish to categorically dissociate ourselves from the self-acclaimed group. Their claims are false and misleading and should be disregarded,” Bello said.

He warned against attempts to exploit humanitarian crises for personal gain, stressing that such actions could undermine genuine efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability.

The forum also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, Borno State Government, security agencies and humanitarian organisations for their support and sacrifices.

Despite their rescue, the 416 freed residents have not returned to Ngoshe community. Instead, they have been relocated to Pulka, where many are staying with relatives.

Sources revealed that no civilians currently reside in Ngoshe after Boko Haram insurgents attacked the community in March, forcing nearly 3,000 residents to flee once again after previously spending more than seven years in displacement camps.

Although troops have regained control of the area and maintain a strong presence around the Mandara Mountains axis, residents are waiting for authorities to declare the community safe before returning.

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters disclosed that troops made significant gains in May 2026, neutralising 317 terrorists, criminals, illegal miners and informants across different theatres of operation.

According to the Defence Media Operations, 314 suspects were arrested, while 18 insurgents surrendered during sustained military pressure.

The military also said 221 kidnapped victims were rescued, three illegal refining sites destroyed and 21,910 litres of illegally refined petroleum products recovered.

Security forces additionally recovered 93 assorted firearms, ammunition and other military equipment.

The Defence Headquarters urged Nigerians to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies as efforts to restore lasting peace across the country intensify.