President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed the successful rescue of abducted citizens in Kwara and Niger States, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of every Nigerian.
In a brief statement, the President noted that he had canceled his planned trip to the G20 summit in South Africa to focus on coordinating security operations at home. “Thanks to the efforts of our security forces over the last few days, all the 38 worshippers abducted Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State have been rescued,” he said, adding that 51 out of the missing students of a Catholic school in Niger State have also been recovered.
The abductions, part of a troubling trend of kidnappings in Nigeria, have raised concerns about the safety of citizens in vulnerable communities. President Tinubu assured Nigerians that he is closely monitoring the security situation nationwide, receiving continuous updates from frontline officers. “Let me be clear: I will not relent. Every Nigerian, in every state, has the right to safety – and under my watch, we will secure this nation and protect our people,” he affirmed.
Security experts have highlighted that the swift response to the kidnappings reflects a more coordinated effort among the Nigerian Police Force, military units, and state security agencies. Over recent years, kidnappings for ransom have escalated, particularly targeting schools and places of worship, prompting both local and international attention. Analysts note that the administration’s hands-on approach, as demonstrated by the President’s direct involvement, is part of broader efforts to reassure citizens and deter criminal networks.
The successful rescue operations have been welcomed by community leaders and families of the victims, who expressed relief and gratitude to the security forces. While some victims were found unharmed, authorities are providing medical and psychological support to those traumatized by the incidents.
President Tinubu’s decision to remain at home and personally oversee the security response signals his determination to prioritize domestic stability, even as Nigeria engages on global diplomatic platforms. The developments underscore both the ongoing security challenges and the government’s commitment to addressing them decisively.
