Army Chief Reveals Rescue Strategy For Abducted Oyo School Pupils And Teachers

Shaibu made this known on Saturday during an interactive session with media executives in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, held as part of activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day. He confirmed that military operations are still actively underway to secure the safe release of the victims, assuring that significant progress has been achieved.

The victims were abducted on May 15 after armed assailants attacked three schools in Oriire LGA, an incident that triggered widespread outrage and protests across the country. One of the kidnapped teachers, identified as Michael Oyedokun, reportedly died while in captivity, further intensifying public concern over the incident.

The Army Chief also noted that troops are maintaining sustained operations across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones in response to various security challenges. He highlighted successes recorded under Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East, stating that over 1,872 insurgents have been neutralised, while several others have surrendered to troops. He further pointed to improved security conditions that have allowed displaced persons to return to their communities, including the closure of the IDP camp in Bama, Borno State. Shaibu added that Operation Fansan Yamma continues to record progress in counter-banditry operations in the North-West.