Tributes have continued to pour in for Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac, a 28-year-old Nigerian Army officer who lost his life during the operation to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The young officer was laid to rest with full military honours on July 10, 2026, at the 23rd Armoured Brigade Cemetery in Yola, Adamawa State, days after making the ultimate sacrifice while leading troops involved in the rescue mission.
Lt. Isaac, born on August 25, 1997, was among security personnel deployed to rescue dozens of teachers and pupils kidnapped when gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire LGA on May 15, 2026.
The victims, who were abducted from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, Esiele, and LA Primary School, regained their freedom on July 10 after spending 56 days in captivity.
Reports on how the officer died differ. While some sources said his convoy struck explosives planted by terrorists inside the Old Oyo National Park, others said he stepped on a landmine allegedly planted by Ansaru fighters believed to be behind the abduction.
The Nigerian Army confirmed that the rescue operation resulted in casualties among security personnel, although it did not disclose the number of officers killed.
In a statement announcing the successful rescue, the Army said the operation was carefully planned to ensure the safe release of the kidnapped teachers and pupils while minimising collateral damage.
“It suffices to note that the operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued. However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces,” the statement said.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde praised the security agencies for their efforts and paid tribute to officers who lost their lives during the operation.
“We also commend the security agencies that took part in the rescue operations for their sacrifices. May the souls of those who paid the ultimate price rest in peace and may God comfort their families,” the governor said.
The rescue operation involved personnel from more than 10 security agencies under the leadership of the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife.
Following news of Lt. Isaac’s burial, Nigerians took to social media to honour the fallen officer, describing him as a courageous soldier who gave his life to save innocent schoolchildren.
Oyo Affairs described him as one of the officers who paid the supreme sacrifice during the rescue mission, while several other commentators called for his bravery to be remembered and honoured.
A social media user, Sir Kay, described Lt. Isaac as a gallant combat officer whose courage, professionalism and dedication to duty would remain a lasting symbol of service to the nation.
Others urged the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the government to immortalise the late officer, saying his sacrifice should never be forgotten.
Many also used the occasion to recognise the sacrifices made daily by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in protecting lives and securing the country against criminal and terrorist threats.
Lt. Isaac’s death has become a poignant reminder of the risks security personnel face in efforts to rescue victims of kidnapping and restore peace across the country. His sacrifice has been widely hailed as one made in service to the nation and the protection of innocent lives.
