The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, has reaffirmed the Corps’ unwavering commitment to the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative while commending the professionalism, resilience, and effective collaboration of security agencies involved in the successful rescue of 44 abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State.

The victims, who were kidnapped by terrorists on May 15, 2026, in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, regained their freedom following a well-coordinated intelligence-driven operation conducted by a Joint Security Task Force.

The operation brought together personnel from the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser, Defence Headquarters, the Nigerian Army Special Forces, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Professor Audi described the successful rescue as a remarkable achievement and a testament to the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation, intelligence sharing, and the Federal Government’s unwavering determination to combat terrorism, safeguard educational institutions, and protect the lives and property of Nigerians.

The NSCDC Commandant General praised the courage, professionalism, and sacrifices made by all personnel involved in the operation, noting that the success underscores the importance of sustained collaboration among security and intelligence agencies in addressing emerging security threats across the country.

He further reiterated the Corps’ commitment to strengthening the protection of schools and other Critical National Assets and Infrastructure through proactive intelligence gathering, strategic deployment of personnel, enhanced community engagement, and continued collaboration with sister security agencies.

Audi also called on Nigerians to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid the identification, arrest, and prosecution of criminal elements, stressing that national security remains a collective responsibility.

According to him, the NSCDC High Command remains steadfast in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities, including the protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, disaster management, rescue operations, and the regulation and supervision of Private Guard Companies.

He assured Nigerians that the Corps would continue to work closely with other security agencies to strengthen national security, preserve public safety, and contribute to building a more peaceful and secure nation.