By our reporter

The Institute of Security Nigeria has commended the Nigerian military and other security agencies for the successful rescue of 44 abducted pupils, teachers and a principal in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In a statement signed by its Deputy President and Chief Executive, Adebayo Akinade, the institute described the operation as intelligence-led, well-coordinated and a demonstration of effective inter-agency collaboration.

The institute said the victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, and praised the efforts of the Nigerian Army 2 Division, the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Defence Headquarters.

It also acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Police Force, DSS, NIA, NSCDC, NCTC-ONSA, local vigilantes, hunters and the Amotekun Corps.

The institute particularly commended the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Maj.-Gen. C.R. Nnebeife, for providing strategic leadership during the rescue operation.

It said the success reflected the value of professionalism, intelligence-driven planning and joint operations in protecting lives and restoring public confidence in national security.

According to the statement, the operation reinforces the importance of intelligence gathering, patience and coordinated action in tackling kidnapping and other security threats.

The institute quoted its patron and former Chief of Army Staff, retired Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, as describing the rescue as a model for identifying criminal kingpins and dismantling their operational networks.

It also cited the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, as reaffirming the Federal Government's commitment to equipping security agencies to combat terrorism, banditry and kidnapping across the country.

The statement further referenced former Chief of Defence Staff, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, who advocated stronger early warning systems, improved forest security and community partnerships to prevent future attacks.

The institute said the Oyo rescue validated its longstanding position that intelligence-led operations, inter-agency cooperation and community participation remain essential to addressing asymmetric security threats.

It stressed that attacks on schools threaten Nigeria's future and called for greater investment in school security and security education nationwide.

The institute urged the Federal and Oyo State Governments to strengthen forest policing and improve the welfare of security personnel.

It also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for providing strategic leadership and Gov. Seyi Makinde for supporting efforts that led to the successful operation.

The institute prayed for the speedy recovery of the rescued victims and honoured security personnel who lost their lives during the operation.

It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria's security architecture through research, training and policy initiatives aimed at strengthening national security.