Following a comprehensive security debriefing, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has facilitated the handover of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a medical doctor at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna State, and her nephew to their family.
The ceremony took place in the presence of Dr. Bala Audu, President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), marking a significant moment for rehabilitation and reintegration.
The event was attended by representatives from the Defence Headquarters, the Ministry of Health, the NMA, and the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD). During the handover, security personnel detailed the efforts undertaken to secure Popoola’s release, along with recent operations that included the rescue of abducted medical students.
Audu expressed heartfelt gratitude to the security agencies for their dedication in securing Dr. Popoola’s freedom and urged them to continue their efforts to rescue other Nigerians still held captive, particularly medical professionals.
The family of Dr. Popoola conveyed their appreciation to the Federal Government, NMA, NARD, and the wider community of Nigerian doctors for their steadfast support during this challenging period.
Dr. Popoola, who is a Registrar in the Department of Ophthalmology at the National Eye Centre, was abducted along with her husband, Nurudeen Popoola, a military officer, and her nephew, Folaranmi Abdul-Mugni. Initially, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N40 million, which was paid, leading to her husband’s release on March 8, 2024. However, Dr. Popoola and her nephew remained in captivity until their release on Wednesday evening, ending their distressing ordeal.
