The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has described the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State as a model for future security operations, calling for greater inter-agency collaboration in the fight against terrorism, kidnapping and organised crime.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Minister commended the security agencies involved in the operation.
He described the mission as “a demonstration of the effectiveness of intelligence-led, multi-agency collaboration in tackling complex security threats.”
The commendation followed the successful rescue, on 10 July 2026, of pupils and teachers abducted from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle; and L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esinle, all in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State
The Minister noted that the operation brought together personnel from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the National Security Adviser Tactical Team, and other security and paramilitary agencies in a coordinated effort that secured the victims’ safe release.
According to him, “the outcome reflects the growing effectiveness of intelligence sharing, joint operational planning and inter-agency cooperation, which continue to strengthen Nigeria’s response to evolving security threats.”
While celebrating the successful rescue, General Musa paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives during the operation, describing their sacrifice as “a testament to the courage and professionalism of Nigeria’s armed and security services.”
General Musa promised that the Nigerian Government remains committed to supporting the families of the fallen personnel.
The Defence Minister also reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening the operational capabilities of the military and other security agencies under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He noted that sustained investments in modern military platforms, intelligence capabilities, specialised training and joint operations are enhancing national security across multiple theatres.
General Musa urged Commanders and frontline personnel to sustain the operational momentum and replicate the same level of coordination demonstrated during the Oyo rescue mission in ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry and kidnapping nationwide.
He further expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government and residents for their cooperation throughout the operation, while encouraging Nigerians to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies in support of efforts to improve national security.
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