Troops, Special Forces Free 44 Captives in Intelligence-Driven Mission
IBADAN — The Nigerian Army has detailed the successful rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, following a 56-day captivity that ended on July 10, 2026.
The operation, described by military officials as a month-long intelligence-driven mission, involved coordinated efforts between the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, the Office of the National Security Adviser, and multiple security agencies, according to a statement from the Army command.
Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, led the rescue mission, which targeted the kidnappers’ network around Old Oyo National Park, where logistics routes, camps, and informants were identified.
The rescue triggered widespread celebrations in the Ogbomoso area of Oyo State, with travellers and passers-by breaking into spontaneous jubilation as news of the release spread.
Victims Rescued Unharmed
The Army confirmed that all 44 abductees were recovered without injury, receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital before being handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families.
President Bola Tinubu commended the security agencies, noting that the victims were freed without the payment of ransom despite the kidnappers’ reported demand for the release of a Boko Haram suspect standing trial for terrorism.
Multi-Agency Operation
The rescue mission featured elite operators from:
· Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service (SBS)
· Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces (DHQSOF)
· Nigerian Army Special Operations Forces snipers
· Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) special units
· Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT)
· Department of State Services (DSS) Special Tactical and Anti-Terrorism Team (STATT)
These units received support from Nigerian Air Force intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets, alongside the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps, local hunters, and vigilantes.
Personnel Casualties Confirmed
The Army acknowledged casualties among security personnel during the operation but did not disclose the number or the agencies affected.
Arrests Made
Security operatives arrested eight suspected kidnappers in Oyo and other states. According to the Presidency and the Army, the arrests disrupted the kidnappers’ network, and sustained military pressure, combined with the killing of some terrorists, compelled the release of the victims.
About the Commanding Officer
Major General Chinedu Nnebeife assumed command of the 2 Division on August 19, 2025, at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, succeeding Maj. Gen. Obinna Onubogu. He also serves as Force Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMA Sector 3.
Prior to the Oyo rescue, Nnebeife led troops in a successful operation in Babasango Forest, Kwara State, where two kidnapped victims were rescued.