NSA Hails Security Forces For Safe Rescue Of Former NYSC DG, Ambassador, and 17 Others.
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has commended the gallantry and professionalism of Nigerian security forces following the successful rescue of retired Brigadier-General Maharazu Tsiga, former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Ambassador Gideon Yohana, and 17 other kidnapped victims.
Speaking in Abuja while receiving the rescued individuals, Ribadu also applauded the efforts of intelligence agencies who played key roles in the coordinated rescue operations.
“We have done it again,” Ribadu declared. “This time, it involves very powerful, important personalities who served this country with distinction. General Tsiga is here – he once led the NYSC – and Ambassador Yohana, along with others. We thank God for their lives and appreciate those who made this rescue possible. This is part of an ongoing effort, and we are doing it quietly and effectively.”
He vowed that those responsible for the abductions would be held accountable, stating, “The perpetrators will pay dearly for their crimes. This is not the end of the story.”
Ribadu highlighted the progress made under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, noting that in just one year and 10 months, the security narrative had significantly improved. “The bad actors are now on the run,” he said. “And we will not relent until peace is fully restored.”
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, also expressed gratitude to the NSA for fostering cooperation among the military and security agencies, which he described as vital to achieving national safety and unity.
“We will not rest until every Nigerian is free and secure in their own country,” General Musa assured. He sent a strong warning to those disrupting national peace, saying, “We will go after them wherever they are. Nigeria is getting better, and though it’s a process, we are determined to succeed with the support of citizens and the leadership of President Tinubu.”
The National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Major-General Adamu Laka, revealed that the victims were rescued from different hideouts, including Gadan Maga village in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Among the rescued was Ambassador Yohana, who had been abducted on 22 January.
General Laka confirmed that the victims, having received medical attention, were ready to be reunited with their families and communities.
Speaking on behalf of the rescued individuals, Ambassador Yohana praised the security forces for their quiet but effective efforts, particularly in the North-West. “Their work behind the scenes is yielding results,” he said. “We believe they will continue until lasting peace is achieved.”
Brigadier-General Tsiga (Rtd) also shared his experience, thanking God for his survival and commending the armed forces for their commitment to rescuing kidnapped victims unharmed.
This operation underscores Nigeria’s renewed determination to combat insecurity and protect the lives of its citizens.
