Tinubu commends liberation of 308 hostages from Kwara and Niger states

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President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday welcomed the rescue of 308 persons abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states, describing the operation as the largest single-day rescue mission ever carried out by Nigeria’s security agencies.

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The President also directed security agencies to immediately strengthen early warning mechanisms to prevent future mass abductions.

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A statement issued on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said 163 of those rescued were abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 others were kidnapped in a separate attack in Niger State.

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According to the statement, the victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during a coordinated, intelligence-led operation involving the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force.

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Reacting to the development, Tinubu said, “The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services.

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“I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives.”

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The statement said the rescued victims are receiving first aid and medical attention at a facility within Wawa Cantonment.

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It added that they would be handed over to their respective state governments for further care and reunification with their families after undergoing medical evaluation.

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While commending the operation, Tinubu stressed the need to strengthen the country’s broader security architecture to prevent similar incidents.

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He directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to reinforce early warning mechanisms, improve community-based intelligence gathering and enhance rapid response capabilities nationwide.

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The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and protecting vulnerable communities.

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“My administration remains steadfast in its resolve to eliminate security threats, protect vulnerable communities, and restore lasting peace across every corner of the nation,” he said.

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Large-scale abductions have remained a major security challenge in parts of the North-Central region, with armed groups exploiting the dense forests around the Kainji Lake National Park, which spans parts of Niger and Kwara states, as hideouts for kidnapping operations.

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