Owerri, Nigeria — Nigerian security forces have rescued 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who were kidnapped while travelling to their orientation camps in southeastern Nigeria.

The graduates were freed on Wednesday in Amakohia Ubi, Imo State, a week after gunmen abducted them along the Owerri-Onitsha road.

The Nigeria Police Force said the rescue followed a coordinated search operation involving police officers and other security agencies.

The victims were taken for medical examinations and further care following their release.

NYSC members abducted while travelling to orientation camps

The 20 graduates were travelling from Ibadan in Oyo State on October 1 when gunmen intercepted their vehicles along the Owerri-Onitsha route.

They were travelling in two buses to NYSC orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states when the attack occurred.

Security operatives later recovered the buses, but the graduates remained in captivity until Wednesday’s rescue.

Kidnappers reportedly demanded N50 million per victim

Families of the abducted graduates reported receiving ransom demands from the kidnappers.

Nigerian media reported that the abductors initially demanded 50 million naira for each victim.

Authorities have not confirmed whether any ransom was paid or disclosed details of how the security operation secured the graduates’ release.

Police continue search for kidnappers

The Nigeria Police Force said efforts were ongoing to identify and arrest those responsible for the abduction.

The incident has renewed concerns over kidnappings along major highways in southeastern Nigeria, where armed groups have targeted travelers for ransom.

Security agencies have also carried out operations in other parts of the country, rescuing hundreds of kidnapping victims amid continuing efforts to tackle abductions.