Nigerian security forces have rescued over 300 people abducted in separate attacks in Niger and Kwara states. President Bola Tinubu hailed the operation as the largest same-day rescue, with victims receiving medical evaluations before family reunification.
The large-scale rescue operation highlights the ongoing struggle against widespread kidnapping and insecurity in Nigeria, while also demonstrating the government's efforts to combat these threats and boost military morale.
Nigerian security forces have rescued 308 people abducted in separate attacks in northern Niger and Kwara states, in an operation President Bola Tinubu described as the largest same-day rescue by a joint security team. The presidency stated that 163 of those rescued had been abducted from Woro community in Kwara's Kaiama district since February, during an attack that killed at least 170 others. Another 145 victims were rescued from neighboring Niger state. All victims were freed from the Kainji Lake National Park forest in Niger state following an operation involving the armed forces, intelligence agency, and police. The Nigerian government has attributed the Woro attack to Boko Haram, though the group has not commented. This rescue follows a recent operation freeing 44 pupils and teachers in Oyo State. The country is grappling with widespread kidnappings and armed attacks that undermine security and livelihoods, increasing pressure on Tinubu's administration. In an effort to boost troop morale, Tinubu approved pay rises of up to 80% for armed forces members.
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