The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on Tuesday, August 26, officially handed over 128 rescued kidnap victims to their families in Abuja, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to combat kidnapping and insecurity.
The victims—comprising men, women, and children—were freed in two separate operations conducted by security forces in Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State, a region notorious for banditry and abductions.
Ribadu assured that the rescued individuals would receive proper medical care and psychological support to help them reintegrate into their communities. “We will make sure every rescued person is rehabilitated and safely returned to their families,” he said, while applauding the security agencies for their swift and coordinated efforts.
The NSA also delivered a strong message to criminal groups, warning that there would be no safe haven for kidnappers and bandits. “Security is not a political issue. We will relentlessly pursue and bring all perpetrators to justice,” he stated.
Speaking earlier, the National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Major General Adamu Laka, revealed that one of the rescued children tragically died from illness. He also noted that a premature baby born during the rescue operation is receiving medical care in an incubator.
