The Nigerian Army has disclosed details of the coordinated security operation that led to the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.
The intelligence-led operation, which concluded on July 10, 2026, involved multiple security and intelligence agencies working together to locate the victims and dismantle the kidnappers’ network.
Maj. Gen. Chinedu Nnebeife led the operation
According to the Army, the mission was coordinated by Maj. Gen. Chinedu Nnebeife, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2 Division, Nigerian Army, headquartered at the Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment in Ibadan.
Nnebeife assumed command of the division on August 19, 2025, succeeding Maj. Gen. Obinna Onubogu. During his inauguration, he pledged to strengthen military operations while prioritising troop welfare and operational effectiveness.
The senior military officer also serves as the Force Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMA Sector 3, one of the Nigerian Army’s internal security operations established to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Before the Oyo rescue mission, he had supervised operations in Babasango Forest, Kwara State, where two kidnapped victims were rescued.
Multiple security agencies participated
The rescue operation was carried out through a joint effort involving several military, intelligence and law enforcement agencies.
According to the Army, the agencies involved included:
- Nigerian Army
- Nigerian Navy
- Nigerian Air Force
- Nigeria Police Force (NPF)
- Department of State Services (DSS)
- National Intelligence Agency (NIA)
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA)
- National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC)
- Defence Headquarters
- Amotekun Corps
- Local vigilantes
- Hunters familiar with the terrain
The operation also featured specialised military and tactical units trained in hostage rescue, counter-terrorism and intelligence operations.
Special tactical units deployed
The Army said several specialised formations supported the operation, including:
- Nigerian Army Special Operations Forces
- Nigerian Army-trained snipers
- Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service
- Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces
- Police Intelligence Response Team
- DSS Special Tactical and Anti-Terrorism Team
These units reportedly worked together to identify the kidnappers, track their movements and disrupt their support network.
Air surveillance supported rescue mission
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) provided intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support throughout the operation.
According to the Army, aerial surveillance helped monitor suspected hideouts, gather intelligence and track activities around locations linked to the abductors.
Local hunters and vigilantes also contributed by providing valuable knowledge of the forests and surrounding communities.
Operation targeted kidnappers’ network
The Army said the prolonged operation focused on:
- Locating the abducted pupils and teachers
- Identifying the kidnappers’ leaders
- Destroying logistics and supply channels
- Arresting collaborators
- Mapping and monitoring suspected hideouts
According to the military, sustained pressure from the joint security team eventually led to the successful rescue of the victims….See More
Be the first to comment