From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have rescued 44 pupils and teachers abducted by terrorists in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The victims, who were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, regained their freedom following a month-long intelligence-led security operation.
The Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja.
He said the operation, which culminated in the rescue on July 10, 2026, was led by the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major General C.R. Nnebeife.
According to the statement, the operation involved special units from the Office of the National Security Adviser, including the National Counter Terrorism Centre, as well as the Defence Headquarters and Special Forces personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force.
Other participating agencies included the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, National Intelligence Agency, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, local vigilantes, hunters and Amotekun personnel.
The Army said the operation focused on identifying the terrorist kingpins behind the abduction and dismantling their networks, logistics channels, informants and hideouts within the Old Oyo National Park forest.
It added that several suspects were arrested in Oyo State and other parts of the country, disrupting the group’s operations and mounting pressure that ultimately led to the unconditional release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
“The operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damage and ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued. However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces,” the statement said.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital and will subsequently be handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunion with their families.
The GOC commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strategic guidance and support, which he said contributed to the success of the operation.
He also thanked Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, other service chiefs and heads of security agencies for their support and coordination.
The Army further appreciated the media and Nigerians for their support and urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
Further operations are expected to continue as security agencies intensify efforts to dismantle the terrorist network and safeguard lives and property across the country.
