The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his intervention that contributed to the safe release of residents abducted from communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
Abdullahi, in a statement issued on Sunday, August 9, 2026, also applauded the governors of Niger and Kwara states, the military, police, Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilante groups for their coordinated efforts to secure the release of the victims.
The minister said the development had brought relief to families and communities that had been living in fear following the abductions in Woro, Konkonso, Pissa and Kasuwan Daji.
He noted that the affected communities have strong historical, cultural, social and economic connections, making the security situation a concern for residents on both sides of the state boundary.
According to him, the successful release of the victims demonstrated the importance of cooperation between the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies and local communities in tackling criminality.
Abdullahi particularly thanked President Tinubu for his directive to security agencies and his commitment to ensuring the protection and safe return of affected Nigerians.
He also commended Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for providing logistical support to security operations and maintaining engagement with traditional and community leaders.
The minister praised the Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs and security personnel for their courage and professionalism in carrying out operations to secure the victims without further harm.
He said the safe return of the abducted residents had restored hope and confidence among the people of the affected communities.
Abdullahi further disclosed that the Federal Government had taken additional steps to strengthen security in the area, including the approval of a new 29 Brigade at Kainji-New Bussa under the 9 Division, Ilorin.
He said the new military formation would strengthen the security architecture covering parts of Kwara and Niger states and improve the ability of security forces to respond to emerging threats.
The minister also commended the deployment of Operation Savannah Shield, which he said was aimed at securing areas and routes allegedly being used by criminals operating across the region.
He expressed appreciation to traditional rulers, religious leaders and community members who supported the affected families through prayers and other forms of assistance during the crisis.
Abdullahi urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could help prevent further attacks and protect communities.
He assured that sustained collaboration between government and local communities remained essential to achieving lasting peace and security in Kaiama, Borgu and other border communities.