Nigerian Tactical Forces Stage Biggest Rescue in Nation’s History

…Sweep 308 hostages from kidnappers’ deep forest dens, as Tinubu demands stronger early warning systems

By Abu Adamu
Nigeria’s security forces have recorded what is believed to be the single largest hostage rescue operation in the country’s history after a coordinated tactical offensive freed 308 abducted citizens from kidnappers’ camps deep inside the Kainji Lake National Park forest.

The unprecedented operation, driven by intelligence and executed by a joint team comprising the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, rescued 163 victims abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and another 145 kidnapped in Niger State.

The massive rescue mission was carried out in the Kainji Lake National Park forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State, where security operatives stormed the criminals’ hideouts and safely extracted all 308 captives.

Describing the operation as the largest same-day rescue ever undertaken by Nigeria’s joint security forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu hailed the feat as a major victory in the nation’s campaign against terrorism, banditry and mass abductions.

“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.

President Tinubu applauded the leadership and personnel of the participating security agencies for their courage, professionalism, and seamless inter-agency coordination, saying the operation reflected the increasing effectiveness of intelligence-led security interventions.

The rescued victims are currently receiving first aid and medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment before being handed over to the governments of Kwara and Niger states for rehabilitation, reunification with their families, and other necessary support.

While celebrating the successful rescue, the President directed security agencies to intensify efforts aimed at preventing future mass abductions.

He ordered an immediate strengthening of early warning systems, improved community-based intelligence gathering, and faster emergency response mechanisms to enable security forces to detect and neutralise threats before attacks occur.

President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s determination to eradicate security threats across the country, assuring Nigerians that every effort would continue to be deployed to protect lives, secure vulnerable communities, and restore lasting peace nationwide.