The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, welcomed 22 students and staff members from the Federal University of Gusau, Zamfara State, who were rescued on Sunday.
They had been abducted by bandits in September 2023. Ribadu expressed gratitude to the security forces for the successful rescue operation, noting that no one was harmed, and no ransom was paid.
This rescue underscores ongoing efforts to free those unlawfully held captive.
Nuhu Ribadu emphasized that his office has quietly facilitated the release of over a thousand similar victims, prioritizing their privacy and safety.
He highlighted that the recent rescue marks a significant milestone in a series of operations conducted over the past few months to liberate victims of mass abductions.
Nuhu Ribadu emphasized the commitment to bolster law enforcement and security measures to prevent future abductions and enhance security in vulnerable communities.
He encouraged the rescued victims to draw strength from their experience rather than allowing it to break them.
Ribadu expressed gratitude to the parents for their patience and understanding and commended security agencies for their relentless efforts and sacrifices.
Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka (retd), the National Coordinator of the National Counter-terrorism Center, explained that the search and rescue operations conducted by security agencies led to the release of the students in three batches after spending 207 days in captivity.
The rescue operation was conducted in three phases, with the first batch rescued on March 15, the second batch on April 12, and the final batch on April 14.
After their release, all the abductees underwent profiling at the National Counter-terrorism Center (NCTC), and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) Medical Team provided minor treatments for bruises sustained by three of the abductees.
Additionally, four individuals were diagnosed with malaria and are currently receiving treatment. Importantly, none of the female victims experienced molestation, and all tested negative in pregnancy tests.
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