KATSINA, Nigeria — Nigeria’s military said it had rescued Amina Abubakar, the widow of a retired major general who died while being held by kidnappers in the country’s north-west.
Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife were abducted late last month in Katsina State.
The military said Mrs Abubakar was recovered after search-and-rescue operations by troops, but added that the kidnappers shot her before fleeing as soldiers advanced.
Mrs Abubakar was taken to a military hospital for treatment, according to a statement from the armed forces.
Samaila Uba, the director of defence information, said in a statement issued on Monday that the rescue operation “followed intensified search-and-rescue efforts.”
“During sustained offensive operations and pressure mounted on the criminal elements, troops made contact with the bandits… leading to the successful recovery of Mrs Abubakar,” Uba said.
Uba said military leaders were providing support to Mrs Abubakar and her family and remained committed to her recovery. He also said troops would continue operations to find those responsible for the abduction.
One of the couple’s daughters, Bilkisu, confirmed the rescue in a WhatsApp post.
“We are deeply grateful to Allah for His mercy and protection,” she wrote. “Our mummy has been rescued from the hands of evil by the Nigerian Army.
“We pray that Allah grants her good health, complete recovery, peace of mind, and strength after everything she has been through.”
General Died in Captivity
The Katsina State government announced on Saturday, June 13, 2026. that Major General Abubakar had died while being held.
Officials said his death was linked to diabetes and high blood pressure.
His remains were buried later that day.
President Bola Tinubu said he was “shocked” by the retired officer’s death and described it as a reminder of the threat posed by armed criminal groups.
No group has claimed responsibility for the abduction.
In north-western Nigeria, criminal gangs commonly referred to as bandits have carried out kidnappings for ransom, cattle rustling and attacks on rural communities.
Jihadist militants have also operated in parts of the region.
On Saturday, June 6, 2026, a video appeared online showing Major General Abubakar and his wife appealing to the Katsina State government to release detained bandits and their livestock in exchange for their freedom.
The region has remained a focus of security operations.
An alleged militant camp in Sokoto State was targeted in a United States airstrike on Dec. 25 last year.
