A coordinated security operation involving the Nigerian Army and multiple security agencies has secured the rescue of 44 pupils and teachers who were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State nearly two months ago.
The victims, who were kidnapped by terrorists on May 15, 2026, regained their freedom on July 10 following an intelligence-driven operation led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major General CR Nnebeife.
According to the Nigerian Army, the operation was conducted in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), particularly the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Defence Headquarters, Special Forces from the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as local vigilantes, hunters and members of the Amotekun Corps.
Military authorities disclosed that the mission, which lasted for more than one month, focused on identifying and dismantling the terrorist network responsible for the abduction. The operation targeted the group’s kingpins, logistics network, informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park and other locations.
The Army revealed that multiple arrests were made in Oyo State and across other parts of the country during the operation. The sustained pressure reportedly crippled the terrorist group’s operations and compelled the kidnappers to unconditionally release the hostages. Security forces, however, noted that follow-up operations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the criminal network.
The military explained that the rescue mission was meticulously planned and executed to ensure the safe recovery of the victims while avoiding collateral damage. It added that some security personnel sustained casualties during the operation.
The rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical care at an undisclosed hospital before they are formally handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families.
The GOC, on behalf of all participating security agencies, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strategic guidance, operational support and resources that contributed to the success of the mission.
He also thanked Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of the state for their continued support to security agencies throughout the operation.
The Army further acknowledged the contributions of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, the Directors-General of the DSS and NIA, and other security agencies for ensuring effective inter-agency coordination.
The military also commended media organisations and Nigerians for their patience, support and confidence in the nation’s security architecture, urging citizens to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to enhance efforts at protecting lives and property across the country.
