President Bola Tinubu has ordered round-the-clock air surveillance over forests in Kwara, Kebbi and Niger following a surge in kidnappings. The Nigerian Air Force will coordinate closely with ground troops, while communities are urged to provide intelligence.
The directive came after over 20 people, including pregnant women and children, were abducted in Isapa, Kwara. Police confirmed the attack, and the state government set up a security committee to develop immediate and long-term measures.
Kebbi Governor Nasir Idris received 25 rescued schoolgirls, insisting no ransom was paid and acknowledging support from security agencies and the Presidency. Tinubu welcomed their release and called for more protection in vulnerable areas.
In Nasarawa, a cleric and traditional ruler reported continued killings by armed herders, saying communities are living in fear with little security presence.
Parents of abducted pupils in Niger pleaded for government intervention, as more than 265 children from St. Mary’s Catholic School remain in captivity.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers condemned rising school attacks and warned it may withdraw teachers if safety is not guaranteed. The union urged the government to rescue abducted students and strengthen school security.
The United Nations also called on Nigeria to halt mass kidnappings and prosecute perpetrators. Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga said bandit locations are known but cannot be bombed due to civilians nearby. He noted precision operations helped secure the release of 38 hostages in Kwara, prioritizing rescue without casualties.