The Nigerian government has announced the release of the remaining Abuja-Kaduna train hostages that were held by the terrorist group, Boko Haram.
The passengers who were abducted in March 2022, have been in captivity for 191 days and efforts by the government to secure their release proved abortive.
In a statement signed by Prof. Usman Yusuf, Secretary, Chief of Defense Staff Action Committee (CDSAC), the hostages were received by the Chief of Defense Staff, General Lucky Irabor.
“I am pleased to announce to the nation and the world that at 1600Hrs. (4:00pm) today, Wednesday 5 October 2022, the seven-man Presidential Committee assembled by the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor, secured the release and took custody of all 23 remaining passengers held hostage by Boko Haram Terrorists following the attack on the Abuja to Kaduna train on 28 March 2022.
“The nation owes a debt of gratitude to the Nigerian Military under the leadership of the CDS who conceived and guided the operation from start to finish. All sister security agencies and the Federal Ministry of Transportation contributed immensely to this operation.
“The unwavering support of the President and Commander in Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR is what made it possible.
“Members of this Committee are grateful for the rare honour and privilege to be part of this humanitarian operation.
“May God almighty heal our wounds and bring peace to our land,” the statement read.
