| 163 Woro, Kwara abductees freed, 145 Niger victims released | Victims rescued by military, DSS, police from Kainji Lake National Park Forest– Presidency
By Abdullahi Olesin and Jonathan Nda-Isaiah
President Bola Tinubu has hailed the rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states, describing the operation as evidence of growing synergy among the country’s security agencies.
Of those rescued, 163 were abducted from Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 others were kidnapped from Niger State.
The victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during a coordinated intelligence-led operation involving the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
The operation is regarded as the largest single-day rescue carried out by the joint security team.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended the security agencies for their professionalism, bravery and collaboration.
“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 rescued citizens are receiving first aid and essential medical care at the medical facility at Wawa Cantonment.
“Upon completion of their medical evaluations, they will be formally handed over to their state governments for comprehensive care and reunification with their families,” the President said.
Tinubu directed security agencies to strengthen early-warning systems, improve community intelligence gathering and enhance rapid-response capabilities to prevent similar attacks.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating security threats, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring lasting peace across the country.
163 Woro Victims Moved To Wawa Military Base
The 163 residents of Woro community rescued during the operation had been in captivity since gunmen attacked the community on February 3, 2026.
The member representing Gwanabe/Gweria/Bani/Adena Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Saidu Baba Ahmed, confirmed the victims’ release to LEADERSHIP.
“Yes, the Woro kidnap victims have been released. I’m very, very excited about this development. We give thanks to President Bola Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and our security operatives,” he said.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Communications, Ibraheem Abdullateef, also confirmed the development.
“Kwara State Government is happy to share that the security forces have rescued the people who were kidnapped at Woro community in Kwara North.
“Kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, security forces and everyone who played a role in this huge feat. We are grateful!” he said.
