Troops Rescue Abducted Widow of Former Defence Spokesman in Katsina

Nigerian troops have rescued Mrs. Amina Abubakar, the wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, weeks after she was abducted by bandits alongside her husband in Katsina State.

The rescue was carried out by troops of Operation Fasan Yamma with support from the Nigerian Air Force following intensified search-and-rescue operations targeting criminal groups operating in the North-West, military authorities said on Sunday.

According to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), troops established contact with the kidnappers during an operation in Tunga Village, leading to Mrs. Abubakar's recovery.

Military officials said the bandits shot her during the encounter before abandoning her and fleeing as troops advanced on their position.

Mrs. Abubakar was subsequently evacuated to a military medical facility, where she is receiving treatment and responding positively, the DHQ said.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to supporting her recovery and assisting her family during the period.

The rescue comes amid ongoing military operations against armed groups and kidnappers across Katsina State and other parts of northwestern Nigeria.

Defence Headquarters said troops would continue efforts to track down those responsible for the abduction and intensify operations aimed at restoring security in affected communities across the country.

Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, disclosed the development in a statement issued on June 15.