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Kaduna State governor, Uba Sani, has received freed worshippers abducted from three churches in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area of the state, at the Government House, Kaduna.
The victims arrived at about 1p.m. on Thursday, escorted by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in no fewer than four buses.
Among those freed were nursing mothers, children and elderly persons. Some of the victims were seen limping, while others broke down in tears, showing visible signs of the trauma they endured during captivity.
Addressing dignitaries, security chiefs, and the rescued victims, Sani described the day as “truly a day of joy” and commended the collaborative efforts of security agencies and government stakeholders in securing the safe release of all abducted citizens.
“I want to sincerely thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has stood with us from day one, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for their unwavering support in ensuring the safe return of these children and mothers,” the governor said.
He also acknowledged the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies for their tireless collaboration.
Sani disclosed that 183 people were abducted in total. Eleven were released earlier and taken straight to the hospital, while 83 returned a few days ago. The final group of 89 victims was rescued on Wednesday, completing the full return of all abducted individuals.
He said, “Initially, 183 people were abducted. Eleven were released earlier and taken straight to the hospital. They have been certified medically fit and have returned home. Out of the remaining, 83 returned a few days ago, while 89 were rescued just yesterday. Altogether, the figure is 183, and we would not be sitting here if even one person was still missing.
“For us in Kaduna State, even one person abducted is unacceptable. We refused to politicise the situation or engage in media arguments over numbers. Our focus was clear — to ensure that every single person returned safely. Today, I can say without contradiction that all those abducted from Kurmin Wali have returned. We thank God for this.”
The governor also announced new security and development measures to protect residents of Kurmin Wali, a predominantly farming community.
He said he had requested the establishment of a military base along the Kajuru–Kachia axis, particularly near the Rijana General area, to prevent future attacks, adding that President Tinubu had assured him that the request would be granted.
In addition, Sani revealed plans to enhance community infrastructure, including the construction of a road linking Kurmin Wali to the main highway, a hospital, and a skills acquisition centre to support alternative livelihoods.
He noted that the rescued victims would undergo thorough medical and psychosocial evaluations before returning home, with government support for livelihood recovery.
“This is the Kaduna model — working quietly with community leaders, religious leaders, youth leaders, local government officials, and security agencies at the grassroots. That is why we remained calm despite media speculation,” he said.
The governor concluded by appealing to citizens to support security agencies in their mandate.
“These men and women risk their lives daily to protect us. It is unfair to attack their integrity whenever incidents occur, yet rely on them when danger comes close. We must remain patriotic and supportive of their efforts,” he said.
Earlier, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kaduna State, Rev. Caleb Ma’aji, described the return of all abducted victims as a test that was successfully overcome.
“We prayed and took the necessary steps, and we have succeeded,” he said, adding that the community would continue to support the government and security agencies.
Several victims also thanked Governor Sani for his personal attention and leadership during their captivity.
One said, “Your Excellency, we thank you for the great things you have done for us. You gave us hope and life when we thought we would die. May God reward you.”
Another expressed gratitude to all officials and security personnel involved in their rescue.
Recall that the victims were kidnapped during a church service on January 18, 2026, in the Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna.
The attack occurred when armed men invaded three churches in the community during worship services, firing sporadically to instil fear before abducting worshippers and leading them into the surrounding forests.
