A coordinated military operation spearheaded by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has resulted in the rescue of 308 people who were kidnapped nearly six months ago from communities in Kwara and Niger states.
According to an operational update obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, the victims were freed during an extensive clearance mission carried out inside the Kainji Lake National Park, a region that has long served as a hideout for criminal gangs.
The report stated that those rescued were among residents seized during coordinated attacks on Woro village in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and nearby communities in Niger State on the nights of February 3 and 4.
The operation successfully secured the release of 163 victims from Kwara State and 145 from Niger State, bringing the total number of those rescued to 308.
Following their rescue, the victims were moved to the Wawa Cantonment in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, where they are undergoing security screening while receiving medical care and other emergency support.
The report indicated that the Commander of the 22 Brigade is overseeing relief efforts, including the provision of food, temporary shelter and treatment for those who sustained injuries or require medical attention.
Authorities have also begun arrangements to reunite the victims with their families. Buses have already been stationed at Sobi Cantonment in Ilorin to transport those from Kwara State, while both state governments are working with security agencies to facilitate the safe return of all rescued persons to their respective communities.
The rescue marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing security operations targeting criminal elements operating within the Kainji Lake National Park and surrounding areas.
