NOA Urges National Unity Against Insurgency, Commends Security Forces Over Rescue Of Abducted Oyo Victims
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to remain united in the fight against insurgency and other security threats, stressing that the country’s diversity remains one of its greatest strengths and must not be exploited by criminal elements seeking to create fear, division and instability.
The appeal follows the successful rescue of students and teachers abducted by suspected terrorists from schools in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State after a month long intelligence led security operation.
Director General of the NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, commended the gallantry, professionalism and commitment of the nation’s security agencies, describing the operation as proof of what can be achieved through coordinated action, effective intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration.
He particularly praised the operation carried out in the dense forests of the Old Oyo National Park, where security operatives identified terrorist kingpins, dismantled their logistics networks, neutralised support structures and secured the victims’ release without paying ransom or making concessions.
According to Issa-Onilu, the successful operation demonstrates that criminal elements cannot outwit a nation that acts with unity, determination and purpose.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies by remaining vigilant, promptly reporting suspicious activities and refusing to allow ethnic, religious or political differences to weaken the country’s collective resolve against insecurity.
“The responsibility of securing our nation does not rest with government and security agencies alone,” he said. “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 also paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives or sustained injuries during the operation, describing their courage, sacrifice and patriotism as a testament to the price many continue to pay in safeguarding the nation.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to promoting national values, responsible citizenship and civic consciousness through its grassroots presence across the 774 local government areas, noting that the NOA would continue to mobilise communities and encourage greater public participation in building a peaceful, united and secure Nigeria.
Issa-Onilu further urged Nigerians to draw confidence from the successes recorded by the nation’s security agencies and remain steadfast in the belief that unity, resilience and collective action will continue to strengthen the country’s efforts to overcome threats to peace and national development.
