The Nigerian Army has rescued Mrs. Amina Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd), during a military operation conducted by troops of the 17 Brigade. The rescue comes shortly after the retired senior military officer reportedly died while being held by bandits following their abduction in Katsina State.

The Nigerian Army has successfully rescued Mrs. Amina Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd), following a military operation carried out by troops of the 17 Brigade.

Mrs. Abubakar was abducted alongside her husband in Katsina State in May 2026. Major General Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information and former spokesman of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, was among the country's most prominent retired military officers.

Authorities had earlier confirmed that the retired general died while in captivity. Reports indicated that he suffered complications related to diabetes and hypertension during the period of his abduction despite ongoing efforts to secure the couple's release.

The successful rescue of Mrs. Abubakar marks a significant development in the case and has drawn reactions from Nigerians across the country. While many welcomed the news of her rescue, the development has also renewed attention on the security challenges posed by banditry and kidnapping in parts of northern Nigeria.

Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to intensifying operations against criminal groups responsible for kidnappings and violent attacks in affected communities.

The incident highlights the continuing threat posed by armed criminal groups operating across several states and raises concerns about the safety of both public officials and ordinary citizens.

Further details regarding the circumstances of the rescue, the condition of Mrs. Abubakar, and whether arrests were made during the operation were not immediately available.