Nigerian Military Reaffirms Efforts to Rescue Kurmin Wali Kidnap Victims

By Zainab Uzomah

The Nigerian military has sought to reassure residents of Kurmin Wali in Kaduna State that operations to free villagers abducted by armed groups remains top priority. The intervention follows rising anxiety among displaced families who fear momentum in the rescue effort may be slowing.

In a statement issued by the Director of Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) said security personnel were conducting sustained, intelligence-driven operations in forested areas where the kidnappers are believed to be holding the hostages. The military said these efforts, carried out jointly with other security agencies, include ground patrols, surveillance missions, intelligence gathering and targeted actions designed to secure the victims without putting them at further risk.

Major General Onoja noted that periods of limited visible activity were sometimes deliberate, forming part of a wider strategy aimed at protecting captives from unintended harm. While the military withheld operational details for security reasons, he said substantial work was underway to weaken and dismantle the criminal networks responsible for the attack.

The Defence Headquaters has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and pledged to persevere until all victims are safely reunited with their families. The military appealed for public patience, cooperation and continued support as efforts intensify toward securing their release.