President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other relevant security and intelligence agencies to launch an immediate and coordinated rescue operation following the mass abduction of citizens in Niger State.
The President also expressed outrage over the abduction and killing of innocent residents by criminal elements, vowing that those responsible for the attack would be brought to justice.
Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, described the attackers as enemies of peace and humanity.
“Those who carried out this cowardly attack on defenceless Nigerians are enemies of peace and enemies of humanity, who will not go scot-free,” the President said.
He condoled with the families of those killed in the attack and assured them that the Federal Government would intensify efforts to secure the safe return of those abducted.
“You are not alone. The entire nation shares your anguish. We will not rest until your sons, daughters, mothers and fathers are brought back safely to you,” Tinubu said.
The President directed the Service Chiefs to provide him with regular updates on the progress of the rescue operation until all the abducted victims are accounted for.
He also assured Nigerians that the government would not be intimidated by terrorist and criminal elements, pledging continued efforts to protect communities and safeguard lives.
“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” he said.
Tinubu expressed solidarity with the people and government of Niger State, assuring them of federal support for recovery, relief efforts and the reinforcement of security in affected areas.
“My prayers are with the people of Niger State at this difficult time. The Federal Government stands firmly with the State Government and will provide all necessary support to aid recovery, relief, and security reinforcement,” the President added.
The directive comes as security agencies intensify efforts to locate the abducted victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
The statement was signed by Onanuga on August 25, 2026.
