A coordinated security operation involving the Nigerian Army and other security agencies has secured the rescue of 44 pupils and teachers abducted by terrorists in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, bringing to an end a month-long search and rescue mission.
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, the victims were rescued on 10 July 2026 following intelligence-led, carefully planned and executed operations led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General C.R. Nnebeife.
The statement said the operation was conducted in collaboration with special units from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), including 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, Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as local vigilantes, hunters and the Amotekun Corps.
The rescued victims were kidnapped on 15 May 2026, and the operation focused on identifying and dismantling the terrorist network responsible for the abduction. Security forces targeted the group’s kingpins, logistics chain, informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park Forest and other locations.
The military disclosed that multiple arrests were made in Oyo State and other parts of the country during the operation, disrupting the terrorists’ network and mounting sustained pressure that ultimately compelled the group to unconditionally release the abducted pupils and teachers.
The statement noted that the operation was meticulously planned to ensure the safe rescue of the victims while avoiding collateral damage. It, however, acknowledged that security forces recorded some casualties during the mission.
The rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital and will subsequently be handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families.
Major General Nnebeife, on behalf of all participating security agencies, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, for providing the strategic guidance, support and resources that contributed to the success of the operation.
He also commended Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the people of the state for their sustained support to security agencies throughout the rescue mission.
The GOC further appreciated 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, as well as the heads of other participating security agencies for their collaboration, which ensured seamless coordination throughout the operation.
He also thanked media organisations and Nigerians for their understanding, support and confidence in the country’s security architecture, urging citizens to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to assist ongoing efforts to protect lives and property across the nation.
