ABUJA, July 12, 2026 — Former Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General John Enenche (retd.), has praised Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of the students and teachers abducted in Oyo State, while urging authorities to address security weaknesses to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Enenche described the rescue as encouraging and said he immediately reached out to senior military officials to congratulate them after learning that the victims had regained their freedom following more than 50 days in captivity.

“When they (Oyo schoolchildren and teachers) were rescued, I was in church; I quickly sent congratulatory messages to the principals, the Chief of Army Staff, the Special Adviser on Homeland Security, among others, because I’m excited. This is what I desire.”

While applauding the operation, the retired general stressed that the incident highlighted the need for more proactive security strategies to stop kidnappings before they occur.

“The biggest lesson out of this for me is that we need to close the gaps. There are gaps that we have identified, and that is why I call on my colleagues who are retired like me—not tired and passive—let them become more active. Let us close the gaps.”

According to him, eliminating existing security loopholes would significantly reduce the chances of criminals holding innocent citizens captive for extended periods.

“Like I said, if the gaps that are there now are closed, we will not get to the level of leaving people in captivity for over 50 days, close to two months.”

Enenche also urged security agencies and government institutions to work more closely together by embracing modern technology and innovative strategies capable of improving intelligence gathering and rapid response to security threats.

“We should be able to locate and geolocate places and put a security umbrella over this country.”

He further appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting members of the armed forces and other security personnel, saying their sacrifices deserve greater recognition and encouragement.

“Give them the morale and encouragement to do more. We have a lot here, but we are only finding fault.”

The former defence spokesman’s remarks came shortly after government authorities confirmed that the abducted students and teachers had been rescued through a coordinated security operation. The victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation before being reunited with their families.

The successful operation has been widely welcomed across the country, with many viewing it as a positive development while calling for sustained efforts to strengthen security and prevent future abductions.