Nigerian Army Rescues 12 Teenage Girls from Boko Haram in Borno
Army rescues 12 abducted girls in Borno operation

In a significant victory against terrorism, the Nigerian Army has successfully rescued twelve teenage girls who were abducted by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in Borno State.

Swift Operation Leads to Freedom

The rescue operation took place on Saturday, November 29, 2025, when troops of Operation HADIN KAI conducted an intelligence-led mission in the southern Borno axis. The young victims, aged between 15 and 20 years, had been kidnapped on November 23, 2025 while harvesting crops on their family farmlands in Mussa District of Askira/Uba Local Government Area.

The military's quick response and strategic planning resulted in the successful liberation of all twelve girls without reported casualties. The operation demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated security efforts in the region.

Comprehensive Care for Survivors

Following their rescue, the victims were immediately evacuated to a secure military facility where they are currently receiving comprehensive support services. According to an Army statement released on Saturday night, the girls are benefiting from:

  • Complete medical care and examination
  • Psychological support and counseling
  • Professional debriefing sessions

The military confirmed that upon completion of these essential processes, the girls will be formally reunited with their families. Their recovery has brought immense relief to the local community, which had been living in fear since the abduction occurred.

Identities of Rescued Victims and Community Impact

The twelve rescued teenage girls have been identified as: Fatima Shaibu (17), Fatima Umaru (15), Hauwa Abubakar (18), Saliha Muhammed (15), Sadiya Umaru (17), Amira Babel (15), Zara Adamu (17), Nana Shaibu (15), Zainab Musa (18), Zainab Muhammed (17), Jamila Saidu (15) and Hauwa Hamidu (17).

The successful rescue has generated widespread relief throughout Askira/Uba community, where residents had been living in constant anxiety since the kidnapping incident. Local community leaders have expressed gratitude to the military for their prompt action.

Military Commitment and Public Cooperation

The military high command praised the determination and swift response of the troops involved in the operation. Officials also acknowledged the crucial support provided by security stakeholders and local informants, whose timely intelligence made the successful rescue possible.

In their statement, the Army emphasized that troops continue to pursue ISWAP remnants across southern Borno to prevent further attacks and safeguard civilian populations. The ongoing operations aim to completely eliminate terrorist elements from the region.

The Nigerian Army has called on communities to maintain their support for military operations by providing credible and timely information to security forces. Military authorities stressed that collaborative efforts between security forces and civilians are essential to defeating terrorism and ensuring lasting security in Northeast Nigeria.