Port Harcourt: The anguish of families in Oyo whose children and teachers were abducted in May still hangs heavy, but there is a glimmer of hope. Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu has assured that troops are making headway in the rescue mission.
Speaking during an interactive session with media executives at the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026, Shaibu revealed that operations to free the 39 pupils and seven teachers taken from schools in Orire Local Government Area are ongoing.
“We are making tremendous progress,” he said with conviction, adding that he is confident the victims will soon be reunited with their families.
The abduction has shaken the nation, but Shaibu’s words carried reassurance.
He reminded Nigerians that the Army is engaged across all six geopolitical zones, confronting insurgents, bandits, and criminal networks.
In the North East, he noted, Operation Hadin Kai recently neutralised a high-profile Islamic State commander, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, in collaboration with U.S. partners. More than 1,800 insurgents have been eliminated, while many others have surrendered.
In the North West, Operation Fansan Yamma continues to weaken bandit groups, while in the North Central, coordinated missions like Enduring Peace, Whirl Stroke, and Savannah Shield have brought greater stability to Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, and beyond.
Shaibu also pointed to improved oil output in the South South as evidence of successful crackdowns on illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism.
Yet, despite these gains, the Oyo abduction remains a painful reminder of the challenges ahead. Shaibu acknowledged this, but stressed that the Army is adapting — with new depots to
train 28,000 recruits, advanced equipment like drones and mine-resistant vehicles, and longer, tougher training for soldiers.
“Our commitment is unwavering. These children will come home, and Nigeria will be safer,” he said. For the families waiting, the Army’s promise is more than strategy — it is hope.
