In a dramatic overnight operation, Nigerian military forces successfully rescued seventy-four National Youth Service Corps members from almost certain abduction by terrorist elements in Borno State.
Swift Military Response Prevents Tragedy
The Joint Task Force, North East Operation Hadin Kai, intervened just in time to save the young corps members from what security experts believe would have been a mass kidnapping by Boko Haram or ISWAP fighters. The incident occurred along the notoriously dangerous Buratai–Kamuya road on Tuesday evening.
According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the rescue operation took place at approximately 9:05 p.m. on November 11, 2025. The corps members, comprising thirty-six males and thirty-eight females, found themselves in grave danger when their vehicles developed mechanical failures near a known kidnapping hotspot.
How the Rescue Unfolded
The potentially disastrous situation was first detected through military surveillance systems. A closed-circuit television (CCTV) system monitored by troops captured suspicious movements involving three buses at the vulnerable location, prompting immediate action.
A military patrol team was rapidly deployed to investigate the situation. Upon arrival, they discovered the stranded NYSC members whose vehicles had broken down, leaving them completely exposed to terrorist elements operating in the area.
"On arrival, troops discovered 74 NYSC members stranded after their vehicles developed mechanical faults. The troops immediately rescued them to prevent a likely abduction attempt by Boko Haram or ISWAP elements operating in the area," revealed a military source familiar with the operation.
Security Lapse Revealed
Further investigation uncovered a critical security oversight that nearly led to tragedy. The corps members had initially received military escort from Maiduguri to Damaturu courtesy of troops from the 7 Division Garrison.
However, after reaching Damaturu, the group reportedly failed to notify Sector 2 Headquarters before continuing their journey to Hawul Local Government Area. Most alarmingly, they proceeded without the protection of an armed escort, violating standard security protocols for travel in high-risk zones.
The rescued NYSC members are currently being accommodated at the Buratai military base, where authorities are making arrangements for their safe movement to their final destination.
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in northeastern Nigeria and the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols when traveling through areas with known terrorist activity.
