President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed security agencies to strengthen early warning mechanisms, enhance community intelligence gathering and improve rapid response capabilities following the rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states.

The directive came on Wednesday as the President welcomed what the Presidency described as the largest same-day rescue operation ever carried out by Nigeria’s joint security forces.

According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, 163 of the rescued victims were abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while 145 others were rescued after being kidnapped in Niger State.

The victims were freed from the Kainji Lake National Park forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State during a coordinated intelligence-led operation conducted by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force.

Tinubu commended the security agencies for what he described as their bravery, professionalism and seamless collaboration in securing the release of the victims.

“The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services. I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives,” the President said.

According to the Presidency, the rescued citizens are currently receiving first aid and other essential medical care at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment.

It added that after completing medical evaluations, the victims would be handed over to their respective state governments for rehabilitation and reunification with their families.

While celebrating the successful operation, Tinubu stressed the need to prevent future kidnappings by strengthening the country’s security architecture.

He directed security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to immediately reinforce early warning systems, intensify intelligence gathering at the community level and enhance rapid response capabilities to forestall similar attacks nationwide.

The President also reassured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to eliminating security threats, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring lasting peace across the country.