President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, praised security agencies after a joint operation freed 308 Nigerian citizens who had been abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states. The rescue, coordinated by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), involved the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). Officials described it as the 'largest single-day rescue operation' the joint security team has ever carried out.
Details of the Rescue Operation
Of those rescued, 163 had been taken from the Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while the remaining 145 were abducted from Niger state. All 308 were reportedly found inside the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger state. The intelligence-driven operation was a coordinated effort that demonstrated the growing efficiency and collaboration among Nigeria's security services.
The rescued citizens are currently receiving first aid and medical care at the facility in Wawa Cantonment. Once their medical evaluations are complete, they will be handed over to the governments of Kwara and Niger states for further care and reunification with their families.
President Tinubu's Statement
Speaking on the outcome, President Tinubu praised the personnel who executed the mission, citing their bravery and the seamless coordination between agencies. In a statement shared by Bayo Onanuga, his spokesperson, Tinubu said: "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 also directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to immediately improve early warning systems, deepen community-level intelligence gathering, and sharpen rapid response capabilities across the country. He reassured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to eliminating security threats, protecting vulnerable communities, and restoring lasting peace in every part of the nation.
Background on Insecurity in Nigeria
Earlier reports indicated that armed groups, criminal kidnappers, and jihadist fighters abducted 91 health workers and killed 15 others across 101 separate attacks on Nigerian healthcare facilities between 2023 and 2025, according to a new international report. The figures come from the 'Care in the Crosshairs: Violence Against Health Care in Conflict 2025' report, published by the Safeguarding Health in Conflict Coalition. The data was compiled using Insecurity Insight's global monitoring system and covers incidents across the three-year window.
The rescue operation in Kwara and Niger states marks a significant step in the fight against kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria, but officials acknowledge that more work is needed to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of all citizens.
