The Nigerian military and multiple security agencies have rescued 44 abducted pupils and teachers following an intelligence-driven operation that dismantled terrorist networks operating within the Old Oyo National Park and other locations across the country, marking one of the most significant school rescue operations in recent months.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, who said the operation was led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General CR Nnebeife, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser, the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Defence Headquarters, Special Forces from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, 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 Amotekun operatives.
According to the statement, the coordinated operation culminated on 10 July 2026 with the successful rescue of the victims, who were kidnapped on 15 May 2026 from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Military authorities disclosed that the operation lasted for more than one month and focused on identifying the terrorist leaders responsible for the abduction while dismantling their operational networks, logistics chains, informants and forest hideouts within the Old Oyo National Park.
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Security forces also carried out multiple arrests in Oyo State and other parts of the country during the operation. Military authorities assessed that the sustained pressure significantly disrupted the terrorist network, ultimately compelling the kidnappers to unconditionally release the pupils and teachers. Follow-up operations are expected to continue in pursuit of other members of the criminal syndicate.
The military noted that the rescue mission was deliberately planned and executed to minimise collateral damage and prioritise the safety of the abducted children and their teachers. It, however, confirmed that security forces recorded casualties during the operation, without providing further details.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital before their planned handover to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families.
The GOC expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strategic guidance and operational support while also thanking Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the National Security Adviser, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, service chiefs, heads of intelligence agencies, participating security organisations and members of the public for their contributions to the success of the operation.
The operation highlights Nigeria’s increasing reliance on intelligence-led, multi-agency counter-terrorism missions that combine military, intelligence, law enforcement and community assets to dismantle kidnapping networks while improving the prospects of rescuing victims alive.
