Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has expressed profound appreciation to the security agencies and groups involved in the successful rescue of the 16 Corps Members abducted in Kogi State on August 26, 2026. The victims were travelling from the Bayelsa State orientation camp to Abuja after completing their Orientation Course when they were intercepted by armed men along the Alloma-Ejule-Itobe road axis.
In a statement on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, the NYSC particularly commended the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Kogi State Vigilante groups, and others who contributed to the search and rescue efforts. The Scheme described the professionalism, courage, commitment, and coordination demonstrated in rescuing the Corps Members as deeply appreciated. The NYSC also acknowledged the unwavering support of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the safety and welfare of Corps Members nationwide, noting that the security agencies were animated by the President's concern and commitment to urgently and successfully rescuing the Corps Members.
The crucial role played by the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Honourable Minister of Youth Development in the recovery efforts was also greatly valued. The NYSC appreciated the families of the affected Corps Members for their patience and cooperation during this period, and the media for the professional manner in which they handled the entire episode without compromising the safety of the Corps Members while in captivity.
The Management expressed relief that all affected Corps Members have been safely recovered and are in high spirits, eager to resume at their places of primary assignment. Their resolute spirit, the Scheme said, is humbling and instructive, and the NYSC remains committed to supporting them as they recover from this traumatic experience. The Scheme reiterated its commitment to the safety and welfare of all Corps Members and will continue working with government and security agencies to strengthen protective measures. "Lessons have been learned, and protocols will be reviewed to forestall future occurrences," the statement read.
The abduction occurred at about 4:40 p.m. on Wednesday, August 26, when armed men emerged from the bush around Ogene Zaria, near the Ogene Zaria/Onicha-Igo Junction, and blocked two buses travelling in opposite directions. The kidnappers reportedly demanded a staggering N20 million ransom for each corps member. However, through a coordinated effort involving troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the DSS, local hunters, and vigilante groups, all 16 victims were successfully rescued from the Egume-Ochaja forest stretch in Ofu Local Government Area.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed the rescue, with Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, stating that the victims were recovered within the Egume-Ochaja forest stretch in the 2 Division area of operation. The successful operation was a testament to the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration and the determination of the security forces to protect lives and property. As the Corps Members resume their primary assignments, the NYSC's commitment to reviewing protocols and strengthening protective measures offers hope that such traumatic experiences will be prevented in the future. The Scheme's salute to courage, duty, and patriotism is a fitting tribute to all those who contributed to the safe rescue of the Corps Members.
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