Troops Rescue 21 Kidnapped Victims in Kwara, Kogi Operations

Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 21 kidnapped victims during coordinated clearance operations across parts of Kwara and Kogi States, as the military intensifies efforts to rid the region of bandits and other criminal elements.

The rescue, carried out on 17 October 2025 by soldiers under 2 Division/Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA, involved personnel from the 12 Brigade, Lokoja and 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin.

According to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division, Lt. Col. Polycarp Okoye, the victims comprised 14 males, five females, one infant, and four Chinese nationals. They were reportedly abducted from various locations in the two states.

Lt. Col. Okoye said the victims regained their freedom after troops launched sustained offensives on the kidnappers’ hideouts, forcing the criminals to release their captives. Some of the victims were said to have spent over four months in captivity.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, and Commander Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, coordinated the rescue operation and ensured that the freed victims received medical attention, food, and relief items immediately after their evacuation.

Major General Nnebeife sympathized with the victims and assured that the Division would maintain pressure on criminal elements across its Area of Responsibility (AOR). He vowed that the Army would continue its offensive until peace and stability were fully restored.

“There will be no hiding place for bandits and kidnappers within our Area of Responsibility,” he stated.



The Army noted that most of the rescued victims were weak and exhausted from months in captivity but are responding positively to treatment at a military medical facility. They will be reunited with their families upon full recovery.

The GOC commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its sustained aerial support during the operations, and lauded the cooperation of other security agencies in the ongoing fight against insecurity. He directed troops to maintain the momentum and ensure lasting peace across Kwara, Kogi, and adjoining states.