The Nigerian Army has rescued twelve teenage girls abducted by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters in Mussa District of Askira-Uba in Borno State. The outcome was confirmed late Saturday after a targeted operation by troops under Operation Hadin Kai in the southern corridor of the state.
The girls, aged fifteen to twenty, were taken on November 23 while working on their family farmlands. Military sources disclosed that the rescue followed an intelligence-driven push that located and recovered all victims alive.
The names of those freed were listed as Fatima Shaibu, 17; Fatima Umaru, 15; Hauwa Abubakar, 18; Saliha Muhammed, 15; Sadiya Umaru, 17; Amira Babel, 15; Zara Adamu, 17; Nana Shaibu, 15; Zainab Musa, 18; Zainab Muhammed, 17; Jamila Saidu, 15; and Hauwa Hamidu, 17. They were immediately evacuated to a secured military facility.
According to officials, the girls are now receiving medical attention, psychological support, and security debriefing. Their recovery has eased tension in the community, which had faced fear and uncertainty since the abduction.
Military authorities commended troops for their speed and coordination and acknowledged the support of local informants whose intelligence guided the operation. They stated that continued cooperation between residents and security forces remains critical for counter-terrorism success.
The Army confirmed ongoing pursuit of remaining ISWAP cells in southern Borno, noting that sustained pressure is aimed at preventing further attacks and improving civilian safety.
