A coordinated multi-agency security operation has led to the rescue of 44 pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after more than a month of sustained intelligence-led operations.
The victims, who were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, regained their freedom on July 10, 2026, following a carefully planned operation involving troops of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.
The operation was led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Defence Headquarters, Special Forces of the Nigerian Army, Navy and 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 Amotekun personnel.
According to the military, the operation focused on dismantling the terrorist network responsible for the abduction by targeting its kingpins, logistics chain, informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park and other locations across the country.
Security operatives said multiple arrests were made in Oyo State and other parts of Nigeria, disrupting the criminal network and mounting sustained pressure that eventually forced the kidnappers to unconditionally release the abducted pupils and teachers.
The military disclosed that the operation was executed with precision to ensure the safe rescue of the victims while minimising collateral damage. It, however, confirmed that some security personnel sustained casualties during the operation.
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.
The Nigerian Army expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strategic guidance and support that contributed to the success of the operation.
It also commended Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, other Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, the Directors-General of the DSS and NIA, and other security agencies for their collaboration throughout the operation.
The military further thanked the media and Nigerians for their support and urged citizens to remain vigilant by providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to enhance efforts aimed at protecting lives and property across the country.
