The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has described the successful rescue of the 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State as a clear demonstration of effective inter-agency collaboration and a major boost to the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative.
The Commandant General of the Corps, Prof. Ahmed Audi, said the operation highlighted the success of intelligence-driven security operations and strengthened confidence in the country’s coordinated response to terrorism and other security threats.
The victims were abducted by armed terrorists on May 15, 2026, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State before they regained their freedom through a coordinated intelligence-led operation involving several security agencies.
According to the NSCDC, the rescue mission was carried out through the combined efforts of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser, Defence Headquarters, the Nigerian Army Special Forces, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the NSCDC.
Commending the operation, Audi said the successful rescue reflected the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism, securing educational institutions and protecting the lives of Nigerians.
He praised the courage, professionalism and dedication of the security personnel involved, describing the operation as a testament to the value of intelligence sharing and seamless collaboration among the nation’s security agencies.
The NSCDC boss reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to supporting the protection of schools and other critical national assets through enhanced intelligence gathering, strategic deployment of personnel, community engagement and sustained cooperation with sister security agencies.
Audi also urged Nigerians to complement the efforts of security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence capable of leading to the arrest and prosecution of criminal elements, stressing that ensuring national security remains a collective responsibility.
He further assured that the NSCDC would continue to discharge its statutory mandate of protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, strengthening emergency response and disaster management, and working closely with other security agencies to sustain peace, safety and security across the country.
