President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a nonstop, 24-hours aerial operation over forests in Kwara, Kebbi and parts of Niger State as part of efforts to curb rising kidnappings and attacks in the region.
The President’s media aide, Sunday Dare, announced the directive on Tuesday, saying Tinubu has asked the Nigerian Air Force to expand surveillance “into the deepest parts of the forests” where armed groups are believed to be hiding.
He also revealed the Air Force is also to work closely with ground troops already carrying out rescue and counter-terrorism missions.
The order follows a string of recent incidents, including the mass abduction of worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, and coordinated attacks in Kebbi and Niger.
Although some victims have been rescued, security agencies believe more people are still being held in remote forest camps.
Dare said Tinubu has ordered security commanders to adopt an “all-out, no-retreat” approach until the networks behind the attacks are dismantled and every abducted person is found.
Communities in the affected states have also been urged to share timely information that could support the intensified operations.
