Battling against criminal kidnap gangs is just one of the challenges for Nigeria's armed forces
IBTimes NG

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun on Tuesday assured the public that the cops will rescue Nigerians currently being held by kidnappers.

Speaking at the Force Headquarters while reviewing the successful rescue operation of 20 medical students from the University of Maiduguri and Plateau State University, Egbetokun said the students were abducted in Benue while traveling to a conference in Enugu State.

A report by Statisense released on the same day revealed that at least 2,149 Nigerians were kidnapped across the country last year.

The report showed that the North-West had the highest number of kidnapping cases with 759, followed by the North-Central with 476 cases, the North-East with 408 cases, the South-South with 216 cases, the South-East with 191 cases, and the South-West with the fewest cases at 99.

"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," IGP's spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi said, Punch reported.

"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."

The IGP praised the National Security Adviser (NSA) for supporting security forces in their duty to protect Nigerian citizens and maintain law and order across the country.

He also thanked the officers from the NSA's office, the military, other security personnel, and local community members, who were involved in the rescue operation and similar efforts nationwide.

Egbetokun encouraged citizens to actively participate in national security and development efforts to help create a comprehensive policing strategy.

The IGP's call is to encourage a move toward modern policing and to support Nigeria's social, economic and political progress. He also advocates for citizen volunteerism and a personal approach to improving social and security systems in the country.

He stressed the need for cooperation among everyone involved -- the police, other security agencies, and government bodies at all levels -- to achieve a new vision for Nigeria with better national security and good governance for everyone.