Nigerian Military Secures Release of Kidnapped Doctor and Teenager
By Lawrence Bilal Audu
The Nigerian military has successfully secured the release of Dr. Ganiyat Nurudeen Popoola and Master Folaranmi Abdul Mughiy, who were kidnapped from their home at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna on September 27, 2023. This development comes after the rescue of Dr. Popoola’s husband, Squadron Leader Nurudeen Abiodun Popoola, on March 8, 2024.
According to the Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, troops had been conducting kinetic operations to rescue hostages held captive by terrorists in the North Central region. Although these efforts were initially unsuccessful in securing the release of Dr. Popoola and Master Mughiy, non-kinetic efforts ultimately led to their freedom on October 30, 2024.
The military has stated that the details of their release remain classified due to ongoing operations. However, their freedom is seen as a positive indication of terrorist leaders and combatants willing to surrender.
This development is part of a broader effort to address insecurity in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for collective action beyond military intervention.
