Nigerian troops have rescued 13 kidnapped victims and foiled planned attacks during separate military operations in Zamfara and Edo states, recording another breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.

According to military authorities, troops of the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA carried out intelligence-led operations in Anka and Kaura Namoda Local Government Areas of Zamfara State, leading to the rescue of all 13 victims from their captors.

The operations also disrupted planned attacks by armed criminal groups. During one of the missions, troops engaged the suspects, forcing them to abandon their operation and flee. Security forces subsequently destroyed a makeshift camp used by the criminals and recovered items linked to their activities.

In a separate operation in Edo State, troops acted swiftly to foil another planned attack, preventing the assailants from carrying out their mission. Military authorities said security patrols have been intensified to protect residents and maintain peace in vulnerable communities.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against criminal elements and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to support ongoing security efforts across the country.

Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have rescued an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and six other travellers who were abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Riyom highway in Plateau State.

According to military authorities, the rescue operation was launched after troops received a distress call about the abduction near Sopp village in Riyom Local Government Area. On reaching the scene, soldiers discovered an abandoned vehicle and immediately began a search of the surrounding bush.

The operation led to a confrontation with the kidnappers, who fled into the forest under sustained military pressure, abandoning their captives. The victims were rescued without further harm and taken to safety.

The rescued victims included ASP Babagida Ishaku and six other passengers who were travelling from Akwanga in Nasarawa State to Jos when they were intercepted by the gunmen.

Military authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects, while troops have intensified patrols and surveillance across the area to prevent further attacks and enhance security for road users.

In this opinion piece, labour leader and public affairs commentator Issa Aremu examines the distinction between a police state and a developmental state, arguing that Nigeria’s future lies in strengthening institutions that promote inclusive growth rather than relying on coercive governance.

Aremu contends that while maintaining law and order is an essential responsibility of government, sustainable national development requires policies that prioritise economic transformation, industrialisation, quality education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation.

He argues that a developmental state fosters innovation, productivity, and social inclusion by creating an environment where citizens and businesses can thrive under transparent and accountable institutions.

The article also stresses that democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental rights are critical to achieving long-term political stability and economic prosperity.

According to Aremu, Nigeria should focus on building strong public institutions capable of driving development while ensuring that security agencies operate within constitutional limits and uphold citizens’ rights.

He concludes that the country’s progress will ultimately depend on shifting national priorities from excessive dependence on state coercion to policies that empower citizens, stimulate economic growth, and improve overall quality of life.