By: Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja.

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 while travelling from the Bayelsa State Orientation Camp to Abuja.

The Corps Members were abducted on August 26, 2026, while on relocation after completing their Orientation Course in Bayelsa State.

In a statement signed by its Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, the NYSC expressed profound appreciation to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Kogi State Vigilante groups and other security personnel who participated in the search and rescue operation.

The Scheme praised the professionalism, courage, commitment and coordination displayed by the security agencies in securing the safe release of the Corps Members.

It also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, saying his concern for the safety and welfare of Corps Members nationwide motivated the urgent efforts to secure their release.

The NYSC further commended the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Minister of Youth Development for their crucial roles in the recovery efforts.

The Scheme also expressed appreciation to the families of the affected Corps Members for their patience and cooperation throughout the period, as well as the media for its professional handling of the incident without compromising the safety of the abducted Corps Members.

The NYSC said it was relieved that all 16 Corps Members had been safely recovered and were in high spirits, with plans to resume at their respective places of primary assignment.

According to the Scheme, the resilience displayed by the rescued Corps Members was “humbling and instructive,” assuring them of continued support as they recover from the traumatic experience.

The NYSC reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of Corps Members across the country, noting that it would continue to work with the government and security agencies to strengthen protective measures.

It added that lessons had been learnt from the incident and that relevant security protocols would be reviewed to prevent a recurrence.

“Salute to courage, duty and patriotism. Nigeria is ours; Nigeria we serve,” the NYSC stated.