President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to strengthen early warning systems, improve intelligence gathering and enhance rapid-response capabilities to prevent further kidnappings across the country.
The directive was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, following the rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states.
According to Onanuga, 163 of the victims were kidnapped from Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 others were abducted in Niger State.
He said the victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during a coordinated operation led by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), with support from the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
Describing the operation, Onanuga said, “It was the largest rescue operation ever carried out on the same day by the joint security team.”
The presidential aide said Tinubu expressed “deep appreciation” to the leadership and personnel of the security agencies for their coordinated efforts and commitment, which led to the successful rescue.
“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.
Onanuga disclosed that the rescued victims are currently receiving first aid at the Wawa Cantonment before being handed over to their respective state governments for further care and reunion with their families.
He added that Tinubu welcomed the safe return of the victims and stressed the need to strengthen the country’s security architecture to prevent similar incidents.
According to the statement, the President directed security agencies and relevant stakeholders to “immediately strengthen early warning mechanisms, enhance community-level intelligence gathering, and improve rapid-response capabilities to avert similar incidents nationwide.”
Onanuga also reaffirmed that the Tinubu administration remains committed to tackling insecurity, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring lasting peace across the country.