By Chimezie Godfrey
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to remain united in confronting insurgency and other security challenges facing the country, stating that national cohesion remains critical to overcoming threats to peace and stability.
The agency made the appeal following the successful rescue of students and teachers abducted by suspected terrorists in schools within Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State after what it described as an intelligence-led security operation.
In a statement signed by the Deputy Director, Communication and Media, Mr. Paul Odenyi, the Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, commended the gallantry, professionalism and commitment of the nation’s security agencies.
He described the operation as evidence of the effectiveness of coordinated security efforts, intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration.
Issa-Onilu particularly praised the month-long operation conducted in the forests of the Old Oyo National Park, during which security operatives reportedly identified terrorist kingpins, dismantled their logistics networks, neutralised support structures and secured the safe rescue of the victims without making concessions or paying ransom.
According to him, the outcome of the operation demonstrates that criminal groups cannot prevail against a nation united in purpose.
”The responsibility of securing our nation does not rest with government and security agencies alone,” he stated.
”Every Nigerian has a role to play. When citizens cooperate with security agencies, share credible information and reject narratives that divide us, we strengthen our collective ability to protect our communities and preserve our country.”
The NOA Director-General called on citizens to remain vigilant, provide timely information to security agencies and reject divisive narratives capable of undermining national unity.
He also paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives or sustained injuries during the operation, describing their sacrifice as a demonstration of exceptional courage, patriotism and selflessness.
Issa-Onilu reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to deepening civic consciousness, promoting national values and mobilising citizens through its grassroots structures across the 774 local government areas of the country.
He urged Nigerians to remain confident in the nation’s security institutions, expressing optimism that unity, resilience and collective action would continue to strengthen the fight against insecurity.
NOA Calls for National Unity, Commends Security Agencies over Oyo Rescue Operation
