President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a massive, coordinated security and intelligence response to track down armed bandits and rescue scores of villagers kidnapped in Borgu Local Government Area, Niger State.
This directive came in a statement issued on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga announced that President Tinubu has directed the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and Department of State Services (DSS) to execute a synchronized search-and-rescue mission.
​The presidential command followed a deadly siege on Friday, August 21, 2026, when assailants stormed a mosque in Gidan-Zana, Kpenya village, Dekara District, around 2:00pm, during Friday prayers. Gunmen opened fire on worshipers and residents before force-marching dozens into surrounding bushlands.
Borgu Local Government Chairman Abdullahi Mohammed Nasir reported that at least 60 victims, including women, children, and elderly residents were abducted during the raid, with multiple villagers suffering gunshot wounds. Niger State Police Command spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the terrorists swept through several neighboring hamlets before targeting the mosque.
​”Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” President Tinubu vowed, describing the perpetrators as “enemies of peace and humanity” who will face justice.
​President Tinubu has mandated Service Chiefs to provide direct, daily updates on the status of the operation until all captives are brought home safely.
