The Federal Government has renewed its commitment to rescuing Nigerians held captive by kidnappers, with Defence Minister Gen. Christopher Musa (retd) assuring affected families that efforts to secure their release remain a priority.
Musa gave the assurance during the 2026 Southern Kaduna Festival, where he was honoured with the Southern Kaduna Grand Commander award.
The minister admitted that many citizens were still in the hands of criminal groups but maintained that the government and security agencies would continue pursuing every available option to bring them home safely.
“As we speak, I know we still have some of our brothers and sisters that have been kidnapped, abducted. Wherever they are, they will know that we are always with them. And we will do whatever it takes to ensure that we free them,” he said.
He noted that defeating insecurity would require stronger cooperation between residents and security operatives, stressing that communities have a key role to play in the fight against crime.
“And we can only do that if we work together in unity. No evil can overcome us because God is on our side,” Musa added.
According to him, the Armed Forces and other security agencies remain focused on safeguarding lives, protecting the country’s territorial integrity and creating conditions that support national growth.
“Together with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, we remain committed to protecting our nation, defending its territorial integrity, and creating a secure environment in which citizens can pursue their legitimate aspirations,” he said.
The minister also expressed gratitude for the recognition from his community, describing it as a special honour.
He said, “Awards received elsewhere are certainly appreciations, but recognition from the community that nurtured you, shaped your values, and contributed to your journey carries a special significance. It speaks not only to achievement, but also to belonging. It is therefore with profound gratitude that I accept the award on behalf of myself, my family, my beautiful wife, and all other recipients.”
Musa further urged communities to expose individuals who aid criminal groups, alleging that kidnappers often rely on local collaborators for information and logistics.
“We have people that are giving them information, we have people that are their informants, we have people that are giving them logistics for them to come. It’s important that we identify these people and bring them out,” he said.
His remarks come against the backdrop of growing concern over abductions across the country, including recent attacks on schools in Oyo State that resulted in the kidnapping of pupils and teachers.
