Nigerian Army Rescues 44 Abducted Pupils and Teachers

The Nigerian Army announced the successful rescue of 44 pupils and teachers who were abducted on May 15, 2026, from a school in Oriir Local Government Area, Oyo State. The operation, which lasted 56 days, was coordinated by the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, led by Major General Chinedu Nnebeif, and involved collaboration with various security agencies, including the Nigerian Police, Department of State Services, and local vigilante groups like Amotekun.

The military gathered intelligence over several weeks to identify the kidnappers' hideouts, leading to a carefully planned operation executed on July 10, 2026. During the operation, several suspects were arrested, disrupting the kidnappers' network.

Although security personnel sustained casualties, the victims were safely recovered, and President Bola Tinubu confirmed that no ransom was paid. The government is providing medical care and support to the rescued individuals, while eight suspects remain in custody.