Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has assured that the police will rescue all Nigerians held captive by kidnappers.

He made this statement while reviewing the successful rescue operation of 20 university students abducted in Benue.

According to a report by Statisense, 2,149 Nigerians were kidnapped in 2023, with the North-West recording the highest number of cases.

Egbetokun pledged to leave no stone unturned in rescuing the over 2,000 citizens held hostage in 2023, as well as those kidnapped in 2024 and previous years.

He also promised to ensure that police officers under his command maintain professionalism and people-friendly conduct.

Adejobi said, “The Inspector General of Police reaffirms the dedication of the Police, under his leadership, to assiduously emplace a Police Force that is professionally competent, rule-of-law compliant, service-driven, and people-friendly. The IGP assures the public of the safe rescue of all Nigerians in captivity across the country. This is our pledge, and we will ensure its fulfillment.”

Adejobi added that the IG appreciated the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, other security agencies and the locals for their support in rescuing the medical students.

He said, “The Inspector-General of Police also emphatically appreciates the personal role and steadfastness of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for his unalloyed support to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in the rescuing of our beloved children and citizens of Nigeria.

“The IGP acknowledges the NSA’s dedication to lending a helping hand to security forces in fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities of safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerian citizens, as well as upholding law and order throughout the nation.

“In the same vein, the Inspector-General of Police extends sincere gratitude to the officers affiliated with the office of the National Security Adviser, the military, and other security personnel, as well as the local community members who actively participated in the rescue operation, along with numerous similar efforts throughout the nation. Their contributions are praiseworthy and play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of Nigeria and its citizens.”

To have an all-inclusive policing strategy, Egbetokun urged the citizens to engage actively in national security and development initiatives.

“This call aims to foster a shift towards modern policing and to promote socioeconomic and political advancement in Nigeria. The IGP further advocates for citizen volunteerism and an individualistic approach to social and security restructuring in the country.

“Additionally, he emphasises the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders, including the police, other security agencies, and government entities at all levels, to realise the vision of a new Nigeria characterised by enhanced national security and good governance for all,” he added.