By Abbanobi-Eku Onyeka
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative following the successful rescue of 44 abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Commandant General of the Corps, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, gave the assurance while commending the professionalism, resilience and effective collaboration of the Joint Security Team that carried out the operation, describing the rescue as a major breakthrough in the country’s efforts to safeguard schools and tackle insecurity.
According to a statement issued over the weekend by the NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant of Corps Afolabi Babawale, the victims were abducted by terrorists on May 15, 2026, but regained their freedom following a well-coordinated, intelligence-led operation involving several security and intelligence agencies.
The operation was jointly executed by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser, Defence Headquarters, the Nigerian Army Special Forces, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the NSCDC.
Prof. Audi described the successful rescue mission as a testament to the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration, intelligence sharing and the Federal Government’s determination to combat terrorism, secure educational institutions and protect the lives and property of Nigerians.
He praised the courage, professionalism and sacrifice demonstrated by all the security personnel who participated in the operation, noting that the outcome reflects the growing synergy among the nation’s security and intelligence agencies.
The NSCDC boss reiterated that the Corps would continue to strengthen the protection of schools and other Critical National Assets and Infrastructure through proactive intelligence gathering, strategic deployment of personnel, community engagement and sustained collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
He stressed that securing educational institutions remains a key component of the Safe Schools Initiative and assured Nigerians that the Corps would remain steadfast in preventing attacks on schools and other vulnerable public facilities.
Prof. Audi also appealed to members of the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could help prevent crimes and improve national security, emphasizing that safeguarding the country is a collective responsibility.
“Let me reaffirm the unwavering commitment of the NSCDC High Command to the steadfast discharge of the Corps’ statutory mandate,” he said.
“This includes protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, mitigating disasters, rescuing victims during emergencies, and training and supervising Private Guard Companies. The Corps will continue to sustain strong synergy with other security agencies to ensure a safer, more secure and peaceful Nigeria.”
