Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has welcomed the rescue of 360 people kidnapped by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State. He described the development as encouraging and expressed relief over the safe return of the victims.
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, alongside other security agencies, carried out the rescue operation. The successful mission ended months of uncertainty for hundreds of families who had waited for news about their loved ones.
The victims fell into the hands of Boko Haram terrorists after an attack on a military base in Ngoshe earlier this year. During the assault, the terrorists destroyed operational vehicles and disrupted military activities in the area. Several civilians also disappeared after the attack as the insurgents moved them to unknown locations.
Following the rescue, Atiku took to his X account to react to the development. He said the operation brought hope to families affected by the incident. Many relatives, he noted, had endured fear, anxiety, and emotional distress since the abduction occurred in March.
The former vice president commended the military and other security agencies for their dedication. He praised the courage of personnel involved in the operation and said their efforts made the successful rescue possible.
According to Atiku, Nigeria’s armed forces possess the capacity to defeat insurgency. However, he stressed that security personnel require adequate support to achieve lasting success.
Modern equipment, improved welfare packages, and strong political backing remain critical, he said. Such measures would strengthen ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and other criminal activities across the country.
Beyond celebrating the successful operation, Atiku urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Nigerians still held captive by terrorists and bandits. Thousands of families, he noted, continue to worry about the fate of their loved ones.
He specifically mentioned reports of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, and Mussa, Borno State. Authorities, he said, must act swiftly to secure their freedom and reunite them with their families.
Atiku also called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security framework. Greater investment in intelligence gathering, he argued, would help security agencies identify threats before they escalate.
In addition, the former vice president emphasized the importance of modern technology in tackling insecurity. Advanced surveillance systems and improved communication tools can enhance the effectiveness of security operations.
Rather than relying mainly on responses after attacks occur, security agencies should adopt stronger preventive measures. A proactive approach, according to Atiku, offers one of the best ways to protect lives and property.
Nigeria continues to face serious security threats in several regions. Insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping have displaced communities, disrupted economic activities, and created humanitarian concerns.
Despite recent successes, many Nigerians believe more work remains to restore lasting peace. Atiku maintained that a stronger and more proactive security strategy is necessary to overcome these challenges.
Sustained cooperation among government institutions, security agencies, and local communities will also play an important role in improving national security. The rescue of the 360 victims has renewed hope that continued operations can deliver positive results and help bring an end to the country’s long-running security crisis.
