It was a moment of emotions as the Kaduna State Government handed over 204 rescued kidnap victims to their respective Local Government Chairmen for safe return to their families.
The handover ceremony held at the State Shelter Home in Katuru Road, Kaduna, on Thursday was presided over by the state Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, on behalf of Governor Uba Sani.
Accordingly, the event marked a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to restore security and hope to communities ravaged by abductions.
The survivors, mostly female and predominantly from Tudun Wali in the Kajuru Local Government Area, with others from Chikun, Igabi, and Kachia LGAs, had spent weeks in captivity before being freed.
Among them were the Kurmin Wali worshippers abducted on 18 January 2026, who endured 18 harrowing days in the hands of their captors.
After their rescue, the victims received comprehensive medical and psychosocial care at the state’s shelter facility, ensuring they were physically and emotionally prepared for reintegration.
The deputy governor, Dr Balarabe, expressed deep joy at seeing the survivors return to their communities, assuring them of sustained government support as they reunite with their families and rebuild their lives.
“Today, we celebrate not just their freedom, but their resilience and the collective effort of our security agencies, community leaders, and government officials who worked tirelessly to bring them home,” she said.
She emphasised that the state government remains committed to providing ongoing assistance, including counselling, livelihood support, and security guarantees.
The handover ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Sani Liman Kila; the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Rabi Salisu; the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Sule Shuaibu (SAN); and other government representatives.
Their presence underscored the importance of interagency collaboration in addressing security challenges and supporting victims of violence.
Local government chairmen played a central role in receiving the survivors. Kajuru Chairman Dauda Madaki, Igabi Chairman Sani Abdulahi Zangon Aya, Chikun Chairman Salasi Musa, and Kachia Vice Chairman were all present to welcome their constituents back. “We are overwhelmed with gratitude to see our people return safely.
As local leaders, we will ensure they are properly resettled and protected,” said Dauda Madaki, speaking on behalf of the chairmen.
Indeed, it was an emotional reunion as families were seen embracing their loved ones, with many expressing relief and gratitude to the state government and security forces.
“We never lost hope, but today our prayers have been answered. We thank Governor Uba Sani and everyone who made this possible,” said one mother, holding her teenage son tightly.
The Kaduna State Government has pledged to continue its comprehensive approach to security, combining kinetic operations with soft measures such as community engagement, victim support, and economic empowerment.
Dr Balarabe reiterated that “our goal is not just to rescue victims but to create a safe and resilient environment where every citizen can live without fear.”
As the survivors return to their homes, the state government has promised to monitor their reintegration closely, providing necessary resources and ensuring their safety.
The handover ceremony, filled with tears of joy and renewed hope, stands as a testament to Kaduna’s resolve to protect its citizens and heal its communities.
With this successful operation, Kaduna State sends a strong message that it will not relent in its fight against kidnapping and banditry, adding that every effort will be made to restore peace and dignity to its people in the state.
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