14/07/2026
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
PRESS STATEMENT
MONDAY 13TH JULY 2026
COMMENDATION TO SECURITY AGENCIES FOR THE SUCCESSFUL RESCUE OF THE KIDNAPPED TEACHERS AND PUPILS IN OYO STATE
I wish to extend my profound appreciation and warmest congratulations to the gallant officers and men of Nigeria’s security architecture following the highly successful rescue operation of kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oyo State on 10 July 2026.
The coordinated operation successfully secured the safe release of students and staff abducted from three academic institutions: Baptist Nursery and Primary School at Yawota, Community High School at Ahoro-Esinele and L.A. Primary School at Ahoro-Esinele, all in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The exceptional synergy displayed by the multi-agency coalition serves as a textbook example of modern, intelligence-driven security initiatives. The successful rescue was executed through the seamless joint efforts of 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 (NSA) Tactical Team and other security and paramilitary agencies.
This operation was a remarkable demonstration of professionalism, courage, interagency collaboration, and unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. The successful rescue underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the growing collaboration among Nigeria’s security and intelligence institutions. It reflects the deep dedication and sacrifices of our personnel, who continue to work tirelessly under challenging conditions to safeguard Nigerians and defend our nation’s territorial integrity.
Regrettably, I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of our courageous and selfless personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice during this operation.
Their unwavering commitment to duty and sacrifice exemplifies the highest ideals of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. I wish to offer my heartfelt condolences and pray that God grants their families the courage and comfort needed during this period of grief. The Federal Government stands with their families during this difficult time and remains committed to the welfare of the families of all our fallen heroes.
I wish to reiterate the resolute commitment of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to continuously strengthen the operational capabilities of the military and law enforcement bodies in alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The present administration will maintain its strategic leadership and policy support to ensure that security forces have the resources needed to fulfill their constitutional mandates. Ongoing federal investments in modern military platforms, advanced intelligence capabilities, specialised personnel training, and interagency cooperation are yielding positive results across various theatres of operation.
These advancements will continue to enhance Nigeria’s capacity to decisively confront terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality.
While celebrating the safe return of the citizens, I urge commanders and operatives across all operational theatres nationwide to sustain this momentum and charge them to replicate this exact level of coordination and tactical excellence in all ongoing security missions.
I also wish to express my deep gratitude to the Government and the good people of Oyo State for their vital cooperation during the operation and I appeal to citizens across the federation to remain vigilant and continue providing timely, credible information to security authorities to support the collective fight against insecurity.
The Ministry of Defence proudly congratulates all gallant personnel involved in this mission and reaffirms its unyielding commitment to building a safer, more secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Retired) OFR
Honourable Minister of Defence
