President Bola Tinubu has applauded Nigeria’s security agencies following the successful rescue of 308 people abducted in separate attacks across Kwara and Niger states, describing the operation as the largest single-day rescue mission ever carried out by the country’s security forces.
The President also directed security agencies to strengthen early-warning systems and intelligence gathering to prevent future mass kidnappings, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring peace in vulnerable communities.
According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, 163 victims were rescued after being abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 others were freed following a separate kidnapping incident in Niger State.
The operation was conducted inside the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in Niger State through a coordinated, intelligence-led mission involving the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
Commending the security personnel involved, President Tinubu said the successful rescue demonstrated growing coordination 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 medical attention at Wawa Cantonment before being reunited with their families through their respective state governments.
Beyond celebrating the successful operation, Tinubu directed security agencies to improve preventive measures against future attacks.
The President instructed relevant authorities to:
- Strengthen early-warning systems.
- Expand community-based intelligence gathering.
- Improve rapid response capabilities nationwide.
- Intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating across the country.
He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to eliminate security threats and protect citizens.
My administration remains steadfast in its resolve to eliminate security threats, protect vulnerable communities, and restore lasting peace across every corner of the nation,” Tinubu stated.
The latest rescue highlights the continuing security challenges across Nigeria’s North-Central region.
Criminal groups have repeatedly exploited the dense forests surrounding Kainji Lake National Park, which stretches across Kwara and Niger states, using the area as a hideout for launching attacks and holding kidnapped victims.
The operation follows another successful rescue in July, when security forces freed 39 schoolchildren and teachers from Oyo State after nearly two months in captivity.
The Kwara State Government disclosed that it deliberately kept details of its rescue strategy confidential to avoid compromising ongoing operations.
Commissioner for Communications Bolanle Olukoju said authorities worked closely with security agencies for several months to secure the victims’ freedom.
She thanked President Tinubu, the Nigerian military and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for their sustained efforts.
According to Olukoju, public silence throughout the operation was necessary because revealing sensitive information could have endangered the captives.
The rescued victims were kidnapped during the February 3, 2026 attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area.
The assault, reportedly carried out by suspected Boko Haram-linked extremists riding motorcycles, was among the deadliest attacks recorded in Kwara State.
The attack reportedly:
- Claimed more than 200 lives.
- Left several residents injured.
- Destroyed homes and businesses.
- Displaced numerous families.
- Overwhelmed local vigilante groups attempting to defend the communities.
Authorities have yet to disclose additional operational details surrounding the rescue mission.
The successful rescue of 308 abductees marks one of Nigeria’s most significant anti-kidnapping operations in recent years. While the mission offers hope to affected families, it also underscores the urgent need for sustained intelligence sharing, stronger community security structures and continued military pressure against armed groups operating in forested regions.
As security agencies continue their operations, many Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether the government’s renewed focus on prevention can help reduce the growing threat of mass abductions.
How many abductees were rescued?
A total of 308 kidnapped victims were rescued in separate operations across Kwara and Niger states.
Where were the victims rescued?
They were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in Niger State during a coordinated security operation.
The operation involved the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Nigerian Armed Forces, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.
President Tinubu praised the security agencies for their professionalism and directed them to strengthen intelligence gathering and early-warning systems to prevent future kidnappings.
