The United States embassy in Nigeria has thanked the federal government for its partnership and support in a mission to rescue an American citizen held hostage in the north.
The American citizen was reportedly abducted last week in Niger Republic, but was rescued during a high-risk U.S. military raid in neighboring Nigeria.
Nigerian and Nigerien armed forces were aware of the mission and provided support for their American counterpart in the discreet operation.
The embassy has now recognised the role of the Nigerian military and offered their gratitude after the successful mission via a tweet.
Michael Pompeo, US secretary of state said in a statement:
“The United States is committed to the safe return of all U.S. citizens taken captive. We delivered on that commitment late last night in Nigeria, where some of our bravest and most skilled warriors rescued a U.S. citizen after a group of armed men took him hostage across the border in Niger.
“Thanks to the extraordinary courage and capabilities of our military, the support of our intelligence professionals, and our diplomatic efforts, the hostage will be reunited with his family.
“We will never abandon any American taken hostage.’’
The US military has existing partnerships with various armed forces across Africa, including Nigeria. Photo credit: @AFP
The elite SEAL Team Six of the US forces were said to have been responsible for carrying out the rescue mission and killed all but one of the seven captors.
Southeast governors to set up funds for victims of violence, looting in Igboland
Pentagon chief spokesperson Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement:
“U.S. forces conducted a hostage rescue operation during the early hours of 31 October in Northern Nigeria to recover an American citizen held hostage by a group of armed men.
“This American citizen is safe and is now in the care of the U.S. Department of State. No U.S military personnel were injured during the operation.
“We appreciate the support of our international partners in conducting this operation.”
About The Author
