Candidates, Teachers in Borno After ISWAP Abduction Attack

Nigerian troops have rescued 10 National Examination Council (NECO) candidates and some teachers who were abducted by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Borno State during a recent attack.

The rescue operation was carried out by troops of the Nigerian military following an intelligence-led response to the abduction incident in a volatile part of the state where insurgents have continued to target civilians and school-related activities.

Security sources said the victims were taken during an attack by ISWAP operatives, who stormed the area and abducted students sitting for or preparing for NECO examinations along with their teachers.

Military personnel immediately launched a pursuit and rescue mission aimed at tracking the movement of the abductors and preventing the victims from being moved deeper into insurgent-controlled territories.

During the operation, troops reportedly engaged the terrorists in a gun duel, forcing them to abandon the abducted victims and flee into surrounding bush areas.

The rescued NECO candidates and teachers were successfully recovered alive and later moved to a secure military facility for medical evaluation, debriefing, and psychological support.

However, the operation came at a cost, as two security operatives lost their lives during the exchange of fire with the insurgents while attempting to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted victims.

Military authorities described the fallen operatives as heroes who paid the ultimate price in the ongoing fight against terrorism and insurgency in the North-East.

The Nigerian Army confirmed that follow-up operations are ongoing to track down the fleeing ISWAP fighters and dismantle their hideouts in the region.

Officials also reiterated that troops remain committed to protecting schools, students, and civilians despite the persistent threat posed by insurgent groups in the North-East.

The incident adds to the continuing security challenges in Borno, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted education-related institutions and rural communities.

Authorities have assured residents that coordinated land and air operations will continue in order to prevent further attacks and secure affected communities.

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