November 25, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an extensive security operation across major forest belts in Kwara State in response to the recent escalation of kidnappings and terrorist activities in the region.
According to senior security officials, the President issued a directive mandating a full security cordon over the forests identified as hideouts for armed groups. The Nigerian Air Force has been instructed to significantly broaden its aerial surveillance capabilities, focusing especially on the most remote and inaccessible parts of the forests where criminal elements are believed to be concentrated.
Under the new order, Air Force units will run 24-hour continuous surveillance flights, using both manned aircraft and available reconnaissance technology. These air operations are expected to work in direct coordination with tactical ground units, including special forces, police anti-kidnapping squads, and local security formations. The President reportedly emphasized real-time intelligence sharing between air and ground units to ensure swift interception of criminal movements.
The directive is not limited to Kwara alone. President Tinubu also extended the security mandate to the Kebbi and Niger States axis, regions currently recording multiple cases of abductions. Security agencies operating in these areas have been ordered to intensify search-and-rescue missions, with many abducted individuals expected to be traced within the interconnected forest corridors.
In addition to military measures, the federal government appealed to communities across Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger States to remain vigilant. Residents have been urged to promptly report unusual activities, unfamiliar persons, or suspicious movements to security agencies. Authorities say timely intelligence from locals will play a critical role in disrupting criminal networks that often blend into remote or rural settlements.
The enhanced security operation is expected to roll out fully in the coming days as joint forces move to reclaim the forested areas and restore safety to communities affected by recent attacks.
