Nigerian forces have freed 308 hostages in Kwara State after they were held for six months by jihadi kidnappers, in an operation officials describe as the largest rescue in the country’s history. Survivors reportedly described harsh conditions in captivity, while authorities began assessing their health and immediate needs.

The hostages included hundreds of women and children, according to the account. Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said officials were still determining the victims’ medical condition following the rescue, underscoring the humanitarian impact of prolonged kidnappings by militant groups.