President Bola Tinubu has called for stronger early warning mechanisms across the country following the release of hundreds of Kwara and Niger residents kidnapped by terrorists.

A statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on Wednesday said Mr Tinubu “directs security agencies and relevant stakeholders to immediately strengthen early warning mechanisms, enhance community-level intelligence gathering, and improve rapid response capabilities to avert similar incidents across the country”.

The statement revealed that 163 of the released victims were kidnapped from Woro in Kaiama local council of Kwara, while 145 others were taken from Niger.

It noted that the victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa local council of Niger following a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, involving personnel from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the State Security Service and the Nigeria Police Force.

The statement further described the rescue operation as the largest ever coordinated on the same day by the joint security team.

According to the statement, Mr Tinubu expressed deep appreciation to the leadership and personnel of the security agencies for their bravery, seamless inter-agency collaboration, and dedication that led to the successful operation.

While hailing the military for their bravery and commitment, the president said that the rescue operation highlighted the efficiency and collaboration among the security agencies.

“The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services. I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives,” Mr Tinubu stated.

The statement noted that the victims were currently receiving first aid treatment, adding, “They will be formally handed over to their state governments for comprehensive care and reunification with their families.”