Tinubu Orders Total Security Cordon on Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger Forests to Flush Out Bandits and Rescue Remaining Hostages

In a decisive response to the alarming surge in kidnappings and terrorist activities across the North-Central region, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today, Tuesday, November 25, 2025, ordered the implementation of a “total security cordon” over the forests of Kwara State.

The presidential directive, which aims to neutralize criminal hideouts and rescue victims, was confirmed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare.

Dare disclosed that President Tinubu has specifically mandated the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to intensify and expand its aerial surveillance over the deepest and most remote stretches of the forests in Kwara State, where bandits and criminal elements are known to be operating.

“President Tinubu directed the Air Force to expand its air surveillance across the innermost parts of the forests in Kwara State where it is believed the terrorists are hiding. They are to maintain a 24-hour surveillance and link up with the boots on the ground,” Dare stated.

Joint Operations Extend to Kebbi and Niger

The urgency of the order reflects the widespread security challenges that have recently seen devastating mass abductions in neighboring states. The presidential aide confirmed that the same directive for a total security cordon and continuous aerial coverage equally applies to the troubled forests in Kebbi and Niger States. This joint, coordinated approach is expected to facilitate the rescue of the remaining hostages, including the students and teachers abducted in Niger State.

The directive comes just hours after reports emerged of a fresh attack in Isapa community, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, where at least 10 people, including women and children, were abducted on Monday evening.

President Tinubu emphasized that the success of the new operation relies heavily on timely intelligence and cooperation from local communities, urging residents to report any suspicious movements or activities immediately to the security forces deployed to the regions.