The Nigerian military says it has successfully rescued the widow of a retired army general who died while in captivity after being kidnapped in north-western Nigeria.
Maj Gen Rabe Abubakar and his wife, Amina Abubakar, were abducted in Katsina State at the end of last month. The military confirmed that the general later died in captivity, reportedly due to health complications, while efforts to secure his wife’s release continued.
According to a statement from the Defence Headquarters, intensified search-and-rescue operations led troops to the location of the kidnappers, where they engaged the armed group and secured the release of Mrs Abubakar.
The military added that during the rescue operation, the kidnappers shot Mrs Abubakar before fleeing the scene as troops advanced. She has since been taken to a military hospital where she is receiving treatment.
A family member confirmed her rescue in a WhatsApp message, expressing gratitude for her safe return and praying for her recovery after what they described as a traumatic ordeal.
Officials said the operation followed sustained pressure on criminal groups operating in the region, which have been linked to kidnappings, cattle rustling, and attacks on rural communities.
The military has pledged to continue operations to track down those responsible for the abduction.
No group has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.
