President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of 308 abducted Nigerians from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the country’s fight against kidnapping and directing security agencies to strengthen early warning systems to prevent future attacks.
The President also commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) for carrying out what the Presidency described as the largest rescue operation ever conducted in a single day by a joint security team.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the victims comprised 163 persons abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and another 145 kidnapped in Niger State.
The victims were rescued during a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation in the Kainji Lake National Park Forest located in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State.
President Tinubu praised the security agencies for their courage, professionalism and effective collaboration, saying the operation demonstrated the growing synergy among Nigeria’s security institutions.
‘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 Presidency disclosed that the rescued citizens are currently receiving first aid and other essential medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment.
It added that after completing medical evaluations, the victims would be formally handed over to their respective state governments for rehabilitation, comprehensive care and reunification with their families.
While celebrating the successful operation, Tinubu stressed the need to prevent similar incidents by strengthening the country’s security architecture.
He directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to immediately reinforce early warning mechanisms, improve intelligence gathering at the community level and enhance rapid response capabilities to forestall future attacks.
The President also reassured Nigerians that his administration remained committed to defeating security threats across the country and ensuring the safety of citizens.
According to him, the Federal Government will remain resolute in its determination to eliminate insecurity, protect vulnerable communities and restore lasting peace in every part of the country.