By Richard Benjamin
ABUJA, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Nigerian security forces for the successful rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, widow of late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, and the killing of a suspected bandit leader in separate operations.
In a statement issued by the State House on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, President Tinubu praised the intelligence coordination and bravery of the officers involved in the rescue operation, describing Hajiya Amina’s release as a relief to her family and Nigerians.
“I commend the intelligence coordination and bravery of the officers and men who executed the rescue operation,” the President said.
Hajiya Amina was rescued on June 15 by troops of Operation Fansan Yanma’s 17 Brigade, supported by the Nigerian Air Force, during an operation in Tunga village.
She sustained gunshot injuries during the encounter but was evacuated for medical attention and is currently receiving treatment at a military hospital.
Her rescue came days after the death of her husband, retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted alongside his wife and their driver on May 30, 2026, along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The former Director of Defence Information died while in captivity, with his body later released by the kidnappers.
Separate Security Operation
President Tinubu also commended security agencies for an operation that resulted in the death of Ibrahim Bastuji, a suspected bandit leader, in Kogi State.
The operation involved personnel from the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilantes.
According to reports, the operation targeted Bastuji and members of his group while they were allegedly preparing to attack residents and a school in Iluke Bunu, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of the state.
The President described the operations as evidence of the professionalism and commitment of Nigeria’s security personnel in tackling criminal activities.
He reaffirmed that the country would not allow bandits, kidnappers, or terrorists to take control of any territory.
The latest development comes amid continued security challenges across parts of northern Nigeria, where criminal groups have carried out kidnappings, attacks on communities, and other violent activities.
While the rescue of Hajiya Amina has been welcomed, concerns remain over the wider insecurity situation and the fate of other victims still held by criminal groups.
Security agencies have continued operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring safety to affected communities.
