NYSC HAILS SECURITY FORCES AFTER RESCUE OF 15 ABDUCTED CORPS MEMBERS IN KOGI

The National Youth Service Corps has commended the security agencies and other groups involved in the successful rescue of corps members who were abducted in Kogi State while travelling after completing their orientation programme.

The corps members were kidnapped on August 26, 2026, while travelling from the NYSC orientation camp in Bayelsa State to Abuja. Their abduction had raised concerns over the safety of young Nigerians participating in the national service scheme.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 1, the NYSC management expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Kogi State vigilante groups and other personnel who participated in the search-and-rescue operation.

The NYSC praised the professionalism, courage, coordination and commitment demonstrated by the security personnel during the operation, saying their efforts were instrumental to the safe recovery of the affected corps members.

The scheme also acknowledged the role played by President Bola Tinubu, describing his commitment to the safety and welfare of corps members across the country as unwavering.

According to the NYSC, the security agencies were motivated by the President’s concern for the abducted corps members and worked to ensure their safe recovery.

The scheme equally recognised the contributions of the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Minister of Youth Development to the rescue efforts.

The NYSC also thanked the families of the abducted corps members for their patience and cooperation throughout the incident. The media was similarly commended for reporting on the situation without compromising the safety of the victims during the rescue operation.

The organisation confirmed that all the affected corps members had been safely recovered and were reportedly in high spirits. They are expected to resume their duties at their respective places of primary assignment.

The NYSC said it would continue to support the corps members as they recover from the psychological impact of the traumatic experience.

Management further stated that lessons had been learnt from the incident and that relevant security and travel protocols would be reviewed to help prevent a similar occurrence in the future.

The rescue followed a coordinated operation involving the military, police, DSS and local vigilantes, during which 21 abducted Nigerians, including 15 NYSC members, were reportedly rescued from forests in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The NYSC reiterated its commitment to protecting the lives and welfare of corps members and said it would continue working with the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen measures designed to safeguard participants in the national service programme.