128 individuals abducted in Zamfara State were reunited with their families in Abuja following successful operations by Nigerian security forces earlier this month.
The rescued group, which includes men, women, and children, was freed in two coordinated security efforts targeting kidnappers in Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State. The handover ceremony took place at the National Counter-Terrorism Centre in Abuja, where the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, formally returned the survivors to their loved ones.
Ribadu emphasized the government’s commitment to providing psychological care and medical support to help the victims reintegrate smoothly into their communities. Speaking at the event, he expressed strong resolve that the perpetrators of these abductions will be tracked down and held accountable.
Ribadu praised the collaboration between the army, Air Force, police, and the Department of State Services that brought about the freedom of those held captive.
Security challenges must be addressed beyond political interests. Let us move away from politicizing security issues and focus on protecting our citizens.
Earlier, Major-General Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, revealed that one child unfortunately passed away due to illness during captivity. The initial rescue operation on August 14 recovered 42 victims, comprising 14 males, 27 females, and a toddler, while a second effort on August 19 liberated 88 individuals, including 34 males and 54 females.
Since their release, the survivors have been receiving care under the supervision of the Office of the National Security Adviser. Treatments have included psychological counseling, medical attention, and rehabilitation services aimed at restoring their wellbeing before the official reintegration process began with the Zamfara State Government.
With the survivors now back home, security agencies have vowed to intensify efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks nationwide.
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