LAGOS – In a major breakthrough in the fight against the scourge of kidnapping in Nigeria, security forces have successfully rescued more than 1,000 victims of abduction across the country. This significant achievement is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian government under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the safety and security of all Nigerians.
The rescue operations, which were carried out under the directive of the Tinubu administration, saw the coordinated efforts of various security agencies, including the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and others. The pivotal role played by National Security Adviser (NSA) Rtd. Gen. Mohammed Nuhu Ribadu in overseeing and orchestrating these missions has been widely praised.
In a statement released by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Gen. Ribadu commended the bravery and professionalism of the security personnel involved. The dedication and unwavering commitment of our security forces have resulted in the liberation of over 1,000 innocent Nigerians from the clutches of these heartless criminals,” he said. This is a testament to the Buhari administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerians.
Ribadu also issued a stern warning to criminal gangs engaged in kidnapping and other violent acts, declaring, “Let this be a clear message to all those who engage in kidnapping and other acts of criminality: we will find you, and you will face the full wrath of the law. The Nigerian government will not tolerate these heinous crimes, and we will continue to work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.
The successful rescue operations have brought immense relief and joy to the families of the freed kidnap victims. Hafsat Ibrahim-Shema, one of the students recently liberated, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Nigerian government and the security forces. “I am so grateful to be alive and back with my family,” she said. “I cannot thank the security forces enough for their bravery in rescuing us. We were all so scared, but they never gave up hope of finding us.”
The news of these successful rescue missions has been met with widespread applause from Nigerians across the country, who have taken to social media to express their appreciation for the efforts of the security forces.
While this achievement is a significant victory in the fight against kidnapping, the Tinubu administration remains vigilant and committed to strengthening security measures throughout the country. This includes increased investment in security personnel and equipment, as well as improved intelligence gathering and coordination between different security agencies.
The challenges posed by the rise in kidnappings in Nigeria are complex, with factors such as the economic devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the proliferation of firearms due to the conflict in the Northeast, and the lack of law enforcement presence in remote areas all contributing to the problem. However, the recent success of the security forces demonstrates the Nigerian government’s determination to address these issues and ensure the safety and security of all its citizens.
As the nation celebrates this triumph, Nigerians are urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities immediately. By working together, the government, security forces, and the citizenry can continue to overcome this challenge and build a safer, more secure future for all.
