Nigerian Army Rescues 44 Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers After Month-Long Operation

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the successful rescue of 44 pupils and teachers who were abducted in Oyo State, following an intelligence-led operation that lasted more than one month.
the video : According to the military , the victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State before being taken into the Old Oyo National Park Forest, where security agencies launched an extensive rescue mission.
The operation was led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, and involved a coordinated effort by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Defence Headquarters Special Forces, the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, 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 members of the Amotekun Corps.
Military authorities stated that the operation relied heavily on intelligence gathering and targeted the suspected kidnappers’ logistics, communication networks, informants, and hideouts within the Old Oyo National Park Forest. Several suspects were reportedly arrested in Oyo State and other parts of the country, disrupting the group’s operations and increasing pressure on them.
According to the Army, the sustained security operations eventually compelled the abductors to release all 44 victims without any collateral damage. However, the military disclosed that some security personnel suffered casualties during the operation, highlighting the risks faced by troops in the line of duty.
The rescued pupils and teachers have since been taken to an undisclosed medical facility, where they are receiving medical attention and undergoing health assessments. They are expected to be formally handed over to the Oyo State Government before being reunited with their families.
The Nigerian Army expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the service chiefs, participating security agencies, and members of the public for their support throughout the operation.
The successful rescue represents another significant development in ongoing efforts by Nigerian security forces to combat kidnapping and improve public safety. Authorities have indicated that investigations are continuing as efforts intensify to apprehend other members of the criminal network and prevent similar incidents in the future.