The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has commended security agencies and other stakeholders for the successful rescue of 16 corps members abducted in Kogi State on August 26, 2026.
The corps members were abducted while travelling from the Bayelsa State orientation camp to Abuja after completing their Orientation Course.
In a statement, NYSC Management expressed profound appreciation to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Kogi State vigilante groups and other personnel involved in the search and rescue operation.
It praised the security operatives for their professionalism, courage, commitment and coordination, which it said contributed significantly to the safe recovery of the corps members.
The NYSC also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, in efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.
According to the Scheme, the President’s concern for the welfare and safety of corps members motivated security agencies to act swiftly to secure their release.
It also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Minister of Youth Development for their roles in the recovery efforts.
The NYSC expressed appreciation to the families of the abducted corps members for their patience and cooperation throughout the ordeal.
It equally praised the media for its professional handling of the incident, particularly for reporting the development without compromising the safety of the corps members while they were in captivity.
The Scheme said all 16 corps members had been safely recovered and were in high spirits, adding that they were eager to resume at their places of primary assignment.
While acknowledging that the experience was traumatic, the NYSC said it remained committed to supporting the affected corps members as they recover from the ordeal.
The Scheme further assured corps members nationwide of its commitment to their safety and welfare, saying it would continue to collaborate with government and security agencies to strengthen protective measures.
It added that lessons had been learnt from the incident and that relevant protocols would be reviewed to prevent a recurrence.
“Salute to courage, duty, and patriotism,” the NYSC said, reiterating its slogan: “Nigeria is ours; Nigeria we serve.”