The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has commended security agencies for the swift and successful rescue of 16 Corps Members abducted in Kogi State while travelling to Abuja after completing their Orientation Course in Bayelsa State.
According to an official statement signed by the NYSC Director, Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, the Corps Members were abducted on August 26, 2026, while travelling from the Bayelsa State Orientation Camp to Abuja on relocation.
The NYSC particularly saluted the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Kogi State Vigilante groups and other stakeholders for their coordinated efforts that led to the safe recovery of the Corps Members.
The Scheme described the operation as a demonstration of professionalism, courage, commitment and effective coordination among the security agencies involved in the search and rescue mission.
The NYSC also acknowledged the commitment of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the safety and welfare of Corps Members across the country.
It said the President’s concern and commitment to the safe recovery of the abducted Corps Members motivated the security agencies to intensify efforts until they were successfully rescued.
The Scheme further appreciated the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Minister of Youth Development for their crucial roles in the recovery efforts.
It also commended the families of the affected Corps Members for their patience and cooperation during the period, as well as the media for professionally reporting the incident without compromising the safety of the victims while they were in captivity.
The NYSC said all 16 Corps Members had been safely recovered and were in high spirits, with plans to resume at their respective places of primary assignment.
“Management is relieved that all affected Corps Members have been safely recovered and are in high spirits, eager to resume at their places of primary assignment,” the statement said.
While acknowledging the traumatic experience suffered by the Corps Members, the Scheme praised their resilience, describing their “resolute spirit” as humbling and instructive.
The NYSC assured that it would continue to provide support to the affected Corps Members as they recover from the ordeal.
The Scheme also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the safety and welfare of Corps Members nationwide, saying lessons from the incident would inform a review of existing protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
It said the review would be undertaken in collaboration with relevant government and security agencies to strengthen protective measures for Corps Members.
