President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to establish a comprehensive security cordon and continuous aerial surveillance over forests across Kwara, Niger and Kebbi states following a surge in kidnappings and terrorist attacks.

The directive was announced on Tuesday by Sunday Dare, a media aide to the President.

According to Dare, Tinubu ordered the Nigerian Air Force to intensify reconnaissance operations across deep forest areas where armed groups are believed to be hiding.

“President Tinubu has ordered a total security cordon over the forests in Kwara State following recent kidnappings and terrorist activities,” Dare said. “He has directed the Air Force to expand air surveillance throughout the innermost parts of these forests. They are to maintain 24-hour monitoring and coordinate with ground troops. This order also applies to forest zones in Kebbi and Niger States where several victims are expected to be rescued.”

He further urged residents to share timely information on suspicious activities to aid security forces.

Fresh Wave of Attacks in Kwara Communities

The President’s order comes as several communities in Kwara State face renewed terrorist attacks. On Monday evening, Isapa community in the Ekiti Local Government Area was invaded by armed men who abducted a pregnant woman, 10 children, two nursing mothers, and others.

Police have confirmed at least 10 abductions.

The attack, which occurred around 6pm on November 24, 2025, was carried out by an estimated 20–30 bandits who advanced into the community with a herd of cattle while shooting sporadically. An elderly woman was injured by a stray bullet.

A community leader said 11 people were abducted, including seven members of the same family. Identified victims include:

• Talatu Kabiru
• Magaji
• Kande
• Hadiza
• Mariam
• Saima
• Habibat (housewife)
• Fatima Yusufu (housewife)
• Sarah Sunday (pregnant woman)
• Lami Fidelis (nursing mother)
• Haja Na Allah

Residents reported that buildings were riddled with bullet holes, and spent AK-47 shells were recovered across the area.

Earlier Attacks in Kwara, Kebbi and Niger

The raid in Isapa follows a deadly assault on Eruku town in the same LGA, where terrorists stormed a branch of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), killing three worshippers and kidnapping several others, including the pastor.

Locals say the bandits operate from forest routes within Kwara State, with one former captive describing the attackers as having complete control of pathways deep inside the bush.

Kebbi and Niger states have also suffered similar attacks, including large-scale abductions of schoolchildren in recent weeks.