By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of 308 abducted Nigerians from camps in the Kainji Lake National Park Forest, commending security agencies for what he described as the largest same-day rescue operation ever carried out by a joint security team.
The rescued victims comprise 163 persons abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and 145 others kidnapped in Niger State.
According to a State House statement issued on Wednesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the victims were rescued in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State following a coordinated intelligence-led operation by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), working with personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.
President Tinubu praised the leadership and personnel of the participating security agencies for their courage, professionalism and seamless inter-agency collaboration.
“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 statement said the rescued citizens are currently receiving first aid and essential medical attention at the medical facility at Wawa Cantonment.
It added that after undergoing medical evaluations, the victims would be handed over to their respective state governments for comprehensive care and reunification with their families.
While celebrating the successful operation, the President directed security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to immediately strengthen early warning mechanisms, improve community-level intelligence gathering and enhance rapid response capabilities to prevent similar incidents across the country.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s determination to eliminate security threats, protect vulnerable communities and restore lasting peace across Nigeria.
