More than 300 kidnapped Nigerians have regained their freedom after a coordinated security operation in Kainji Lake National Park, with the Presidency describing it as the largest single-day rescue mission ever carried out by the country’s security agencies.
The operation led to the rescue of 308 abductees who were taken during separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states. According to the Presidency, the mission involved personnel from the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) and intelligence agencies working together.
Among those rescued were 163 residents of Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, who were kidnapped during the deadly February attack that left scores of people dead. Another 145 victims abducted in a separate incident in Niger State were also freed during the operation.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed the successful operation, describing it as a major breakthrough in the fight against insecurity. The President praised the security agencies for their coordinated efforts and said the mission reflected improving collaboration among Nigeria’s law enforcement and military institutions.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention and essential care at a military facility before being reunited with their families. Authorities have not disclosed whether any suspects were arrested during the operation or provided further details on how the rescue was carried out.
The attack on Woro community in February remains one of the deadliest incidents recorded in Kwara State in recent years. The Federal Government blamed Boko Haram for the assault, during which gunmen reportedly attempted to force residents to reject the Nigerian government and adopt their extremist ideology. Human rights organisation Amnesty International had earlier reported that many of the victims killed during the attack were found with their hands and feet bound, with some shot and others suffering fatal throat injuries.
The latest rescue comes only weeks after security forces secured the release of 44 pupils and teachers kidnapped during a school attack in Oyo State following more than 50 days in captivity. Those rescues followed weeks of intelligence-led operations.
Despite the latest success, recurring mass kidnappings across North-Central Nigeria and other parts of the country continue to raise concerns over the expanding reach of armed criminal groups and insurgents, underscoring the need for sustained security operations and stronger protection for vulnerable communities.
