The Kebbi State Government has confirmed the successful rescue of a university student who was abducted earlier this week by unidentified gunmen, in an operation praised for its speed and coordination among security agencies.
The student, whose name has been withheld for security reasons, was reportedly taken from the outskirts of the state capital, Birnin Kebbi, near a student residential area affiliated with a local university. The abduction, which sparked widespread concern among residents and the academic community, prompted swift action from the state’s security apparatus.
In a statement released on Thursday, Kebbi State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed Birnin Kebbi, commended the collaborative efforts of the police, military, and local vigilante groups that led to the student’s safe return.
“We are relieved to announce that the kidnapped student has been rescued unharmed through the diligent efforts of our security forces,” the statement read. “The state government remains committed to ensuring the safety of all residents, particularly our young people pursuing education.”
The rescue reportedly followed days of intelligence-led surveillance and a tactical operation that targeted suspected hideouts in the surrounding bushlands. While the government has not confirmed whether any arrests were made during the rescue, security sources hinted that efforts to apprehend the culprits are ongoing.
The incident has reignited concerns over the security of students in northern Nigeria, where cases of abductions particularly in remote or under-policed areas have plagued communities and institutions in recent years.
In response, the Kebbi State Government announced plans to strengthen security presence around tertiary institutions and student-populated areas, including deploying more patrol units and improving lighting and surveillance infrastructure.
Parents, school administrators, and civil society groups have lauded the swift response, urging the government to sustain the momentum in tackling insecurity and preventing future abductions.
The rescued student is currently receiving medical attention and counseling, and is expected to reunite with family soon.
As the state celebrates the successful rescue, calls continue for a broader, more proactive security strategy to safeguard students and communities from the growing threat of criminal activity in the region.
source: channelstv.com
