The Kogi State Government has confirmed the rescue of all victims abducted from the Daarul-Kitab Islamic Orphanage in Lokoja, ending a nearly two-week security operation that authorities described as a major breakthrough against kidnapping and violent crime in the state.

Gunmen had attacked the orphanage on April 26, abducting 23 people, including pupils and the wife of the orphanage proprietor, in an incident that renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said the remaining victims were rescued during a coordinated operation carried out in the early hours of the day.

According to the government, troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, supported by other security agencies, conducted the operation in the Agbaja Forest area of Lokoja Local Government Area.

The latest rescue operation secured the release of five boys, two girls and two adult women. Authorities said the victims had been evacuated to a military medical facility for treatment and evaluation.

The government had earlier announced the rescue of 15 victims on April 27 following intensified security operations across the state.

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo praised the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for what he described as professionalism, bravery and effective collaboration.

“The safety and security of all residents remain the foremost priority of our administration. This successful operation underscores our determination to ensure that criminal elements have no foothold in Kogi,” the governor said.

Ododo added that the state would continue to strengthen intelligence gathering and support security agencies in efforts to combat kidnapping and violent crimes.

The governor also acknowledged the support of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in sustaining security operations and maintaining stability in the state.

Kidnappings for ransom remain a major security challenge across several parts of Nigeria, with schools, highways and rural communities frequently targeted by armed groups. Authorities in Kogi said efforts were ongoing to track down and prosecute those responsible for the orphanage attack.