President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Air Force to expand air surveillance across remote forests in Kwara State, where terrorists are believed to be hiding. Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, announced the directive on his X handle on Tuesday.
The presidential order also covers Kebbi and Niger States, where authorities expect to rescue many kidnapped victims. Dare explained that the 24-hour air surveillance will complement ongoing ground operations.
“Communities should provide timely information about unusual movements and activities to support security forces,” he added.
Recent Kidnappings Across Nigeria
The directive comes amid a surge in mass kidnappings. Terrorists attacked St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Niger State, abducting over 300 schoolchildren and staff. Earlier that same week, 25 girls were taken from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, Danko Wasagu LGA in Kebbi State, while 38 worshippers were kidnapped from a church in Eruku, Kwara State.
At least 50 students from St. Mary’s Catholic School escaped, but more than 265 children and teachers remain in captivity.
Nigeria’s Ongoing Security Challenges
Nigeria experienced its first high-profile mass kidnapping in 2014, when Boko Haram abducted 276 Chibok schoolgirls in the northeast. More than a decade later, about 90 of those girls are still missing.
The country continues to face a persistent security crisis fueled by jihadist attacks and violent “bandit” gangs. These groups raid villages, kill civilians, and abduct people for ransom, creating fear and instability in multiple regions.
Read also: 24 Kebbi Schoolgirls Regain Freedom; No Ransom Paid
