Nigerian troops have rescued 25 people during separate military operations in Katsina and Zamfara states.
The rescue operations took place on September 3, 2026.
Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the media information officer for Operation Fansan Yamma, confirmed the operations in a statement.
In Katsina State, Sector 1 troops were conducting a night patrol around Kwanar Kura in Sabuwa Local Government Area.
The soldiers reportedly encountered armed terrorists and engaged them in a gun battle.
The attackers fled into the surrounding bushes after troops gained the advantage.
Soldiers followed their escape routes and rescued two people who had previously been kidnapped along the Dandume-Damari Road.
The troops also recovered two motorcycles reportedly abandoned by the fleeing attackers.
In a separate operation in Zamfara State, Sector 2 troops conducted a fighting patrol outside Wuya town in Anka Local Government Area.
They rescued 23 abducted civilians, including 20 women and three men.
Initial questioning indicated that the victims had been taken from Gummi Local Government Area.
They had reportedly spent about three weeks in captivity.
The rescued people were taken for medical attention and further questioning about their experience and the kidnappers.
Military officials said troops would continue operations aimed at disrupting armed groups and rescuing people held captive across north-western Nigeria.
The information about the encounters and rescues was provided by Operation Fansan Yamma. No independent account from the rescued civilians was immediately available.
