The Kogi government has confirmed the rescue of the remaining nine abducted children of Daarul-Kitab Islamic Orphanage in Zariagi.

In a statement on Wednesday, information commissioner Kingsley Fanwo said, “Following coordinated and sustained search-and-rescue operations, troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, acting on behalf of and in support of the Kogi state government, and in collaboration with other security agencies, successfully rescued the remaining victims in the early hours of May 6, 2026. 

“The operation led to the safe recovery of five boys, two girls, and two adult females from the Agbaja Forest axis in Lokoja local government area.”

He added that the rescued victims had been taken to a military medical facility, where they are receiving proper medical care.

Mr Fanwo explained that Governor Ahmed Ododo commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies involved in the operation.

“This successful operation underscores our determination to ensure that criminal elements have no foothold in Kogi state. We will continue to strengthen our security architecture, deepen intelligence gathering, and provide the necessary support for our security agencies to act swiftly and decisively,” the governor stated.

He added that the state reiterates its zero-tolerance stance on kidnapping and all forms of violent crime and urges citizens to remain vigilant while cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information.