Tinubu Orders Nonstop Aerial Surveillance as Security Forces Tighten Cordon Across Kwara, Kebbi, Niger

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered round-the-clock aerial surveillance over forests in Kwara, Kebbi and parts of Niger State as security forces intensify efforts to dislodge armed groups responsible for a surge in kidnappings and attacks across the Northcentral and Northwest. The directive, announced by his media adviser Sunday Dare on his verified X account, mandates the Nigerian Air Force to extend constant monitoring into the deepest parts of the forests where criminal networks are believed to operate. Air operations are to run uninterrupted and in full coordination with ground troops engaged in rescue missions and counter-terrorism actions.

Security units have also been instructed to enforce a full cordon across the affected corridors, including the Kebbi–Niger axis, where multiple rescue operations continue. The move follows a sharp escalation of attacks, including last week’s abduction of worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, and renewed violence in Kebbi and Niger. In recent days, 38 abductees from Eruku and 51 pupils in Niger State were freed, alongside previously kidnapped students in Kebbi.

Despite these gains, armed groups struck again on Monday, attacking Isapa in Kwara State and seizing 11 residents, among them a pregnant woman, nursing mothers and children. Witnesses reported heavy gunfire as the attackers advanced through the community, leaving homes riddled with bullets. Spent AK-47 shells were recovered after the raid.

Kwara State Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo confirmed the incident during a visit to the village for an assessment. According to police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, operatives responded swiftly after receiving reports of gunfire, though the attackers had already taken hostages. One woman sustained a gunshot wound but was treated and discharged. Police later confirmed that 10 people were abducted after further checks. Traditional rulers and community leaders were assured that intensified operations are underway, with tactical teams and local vigilantes combing surrounding bushes in search of the victims. Authorities say calm has returned to the area and security surveillance remains active.

The fresh federal push comes days after the withdrawal of police escorts from VIPs to bolster community policing and strengthen joint security deployments in the North. Analysts view the new aerial-ground lockdown as a sign of Abuja’s determination to halt the spread of rural and peri-urban violence and reinforce public confidence as rescue efforts continue.