Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued 21 kidnap victims, including four Chinese nationals, during a series of coordinated operations across Kwara and Kogi States.
The rescue, carried out on Thursday, October 17, 2025, was confirmed in a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, on Saturday.
According to Okoye, the operation was jointly executed by personnel from the 2 Division, 12 Brigade Lokoja, and 22 Armoured Brigade Ilorin, under Operation FANSAN YAMA — a military offensive designed to eliminate bandits and kidnappers operating within the North-Central region.
He said, “In a sustained effort to rid Kwara, Kogi, and neighbouring states of criminal elements, troops of 2 Division and Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA, successfully rescued 21 kidnapped victims, including four Chinese nationals.”
The army spokesperson noted that the victims — comprising 14 men, five women, one infant, and four Chinese nationals — were freed following intensified air and ground offensives on criminal hideouts in the region.
He explained that the captives had been abducted from various communities in Kwara and Kogi and held for months before the army’s intervention forced their release.
“Some of the victims had been in captivity for more than four months before their rescue,” Okoye revealed, adding that all the rescued individuals were immediately taken to a military medical facility for first aid and treatment.
He continued, “Most of them were extremely weak and could barely walk due to prolonged hardship. They are now receiving comprehensive medical care and will be reunited with their families after full recovery.”
The General Officer Commanding 2 Division, and Commander, Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA, Major General C. R. Nnebeife, who supervised the operation, provided relief materials and reassured victims of the army’s commitment to ending banditry in the region.
Major General Nnebeife said, “The Nigerian Army will not relent in its efforts to ensure peace and security. There will be no hiding place for bandits and kidnappers within our area of responsibility.”
He also praised the Nigerian Air Force for its aerial support and commended other security agencies for their collaboration in combating insecurity.
“We deeply appreciate the Air Force for its sustained air support and other security agencies for their synergy in addressing security challenges,” Nnebeife stated.
The army appealed to residents to remain vigilant and share credible information that could assist in identifying criminal elements still hiding in remote areas.
“Our troops are determined to sustain the momentum of operations,” the GOC added. “With the support of the public, we will restore peace and safety across Kwara, Kogi, and neighbouring states.”
