The Nigerian Army executed a swift and successful Nigerian Army rescue operation yesterday, freeing retired Colonel Ajanaku from kidnappers in Plateau State. This decisive action by troops of Operation Enduring Peace underscores the military’s unwavering commitment to combating insecurity. The retired officer had been abducted by gunmen in the early hours of January 5, 2026, from his residence in Bassa Local Government Area, prompting an immediate and robust army rescue response.
The abduction occurred opposite the Salvation Army Church along Rukuba Road, Bassa LGA, sending immediate alarm through the local community. Such incidents highlight the persistent security challenges faced by residents in various parts of Nigeria, prompting urgent calls for enhanced protective measures and rapid response capabilities from security agencies.
What is Operation Enduring Peace? Operation Enduring Peace is a specialized military initiative by the Nigerian Armed Forces designed to combat insecurity, particularly kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities across various regions, including Plateau State. Its primary objective is to safeguard lives and property and ensure freedom of movement for all citizens.
Upon receiving a distress call, troops from Sectors 1 and 3 of Operation Enduring Peace were swiftly mobilized. Their immediate response involved trailing the kidnappers along their suspected withdrawal route, which led them through the challenging terrain of the Wildlife Park. This rapid deployment was crucial for the eventual army rescue operation, preventing the abductors from establishing a significant lead.
Later on the same day, around 1400 hours, the kidnappers made contact with Colonel Ajanaku’s wife, demanding a hefty ransom of N200 million. As the pressure from the pursuing troops intensified, the abductors issued threats to kill the victim if the search operations were not immediately halted, demonstrating their desperation and the grave danger faced by the retired officer.
In response to the kidnappers’ threats and the critical need to ensure the Colonel’s safety, the troops tactically switched from overt pursuit to covert operations. This strategic shift allowed the military to maintain pressure on the abductors while minimizing direct confrontation that could endanger the hostage, showcasing sophisticated operational planning.
This meticulous approach culminated in the successful Nigerian Army rescue of Colonel Ajanaku (retd) about 1730 hours on January 5, 2026. The rescue took place at the outskirts of the Rafiki Axis, Bassa LGA, Plateau State, notably without any ransom payment. This outcome is a testament to the effectiveness of the military’s intelligence gathering and operational execution.
Following his harrowing experience, the rescued officer is currently undergoing comprehensive medical examination at the Operation Enduring Peace Medical Centre. He is reported to be in stable condition, receiving the necessary care to recover from the ordeal. He will also be debriefed to provide vital intelligence that will aid ongoing follow-up operations against the criminal network.
How to prevent kidnapping in Nigeria remains a critical question for both citizens and security forces. Effective prevention often involves community vigilance, intelligence sharing, and proactive security patrols in vulnerable areas. The successful Nigerian Army rescue of Colonel Ajanaku highlights that swift, coordinated military response is also a crucial deterrent and solution.
When considering the Nigerian army vs police kidnapping response, both play vital roles, but their approaches and capabilities often differ. The army, with its specialized training and resources, is frequently deployed in high-risk rescue operations, especially in areas with significant armed gang activity, while the police focus on initial investigations and civilian protection.
Understanding kidnapping in Nigeria explained often points to socio-economic factors, weak governance in some areas, and the proliferation of arms. To address this, a comprehensive Plateau State security guide would advocate for stronger community policing, improved intelligence networks, and sustained military operations like Operation Enduring Peace to dismantle criminal strongholds.
Looking at the Nigeria security outlook 2026, there’s a clear need for sustained efforts to curb criminal activities. Implementing the best anti-kidnapping strategies 2026 will require a multi-faceted approach, including technological surveillance, community engagement, and continued capacity building for security personnel to adapt to evolving threats.
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace are continuing combing operations within surrounding forests to apprehend the fleeing kidnappers and dismantle their entire criminal network. This sustained pressure aims to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and to deter future acts of abduction in the region and beyond.
The Nigerian Army reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, pledging to continue denying criminal elements freedom of action across the joint operations area. This recent Nigerian Army rescue operation serves as a powerful message that the military remains vigilant and capable of confronting security threats head-on.
