President Tinubu condemns mass abduction in Niger state, orders immediate rescue operation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to immediately commence a coordinated operation to rescue victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger State.

The President issued the directive on Monday, August 25, 2026, while condemning the abduction and reported k!lling of innocent citizens by criminal elements in the state.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said those responsible for the attack would be held accountable.

“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” the President said

The President also expressed condolences to the families of those reportedly k!lled during the attack and assured affected families that the Federal Government would continue working to secure the safe return of those abducted.

The President directed the Service Chiefs to provide him with regular updates on the rescue operation until all the abducted persons are accounted for.

He also pledged Federal Government support to the Niger State Government through security reinforcement, relief and recovery measures.