The Senate has called on the Federal Government to sustain and intensify military and intelligence-led operations against terrorists, kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements across the country.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of commendation sponsored by Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, and co-sponsored by all senators during plenary on Wednesday.
The lawmakers commended President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces and other security agencies for the successful rescue of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The Senate urged the government to further strengthen security operations by equipping the military and other agencies with modern weapons, advanced surveillance technology, improved intelligence capabilities, better logistics and enhanced welfare packages.
It stressed that such measures must be sustained until Nigerians can freely live, work, operate businesses and pursue education without fear of attacks.
The chamber also urged the prompt payment of statutory death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other welfare entitlements to families of security personnel who lost their lives while serving the nation.
Leading the debate, Bamidele commended President Tinubu for his swift intervention following the abduction of the pupils and teachers on May 15, 2026, noting that the President directed security agencies to deploy all lawful resources to secure their unconditional release.
He recalled that after more than 50 days of intelligence-driven operations, security forces rescued the victims on July 10, arrested eight suspected terrorists and neutralised several others.
According to him, the operation restored hope among Nigerians, particularly parents and school communities, while highlighting the professionalism and effectiveness of the nation’s security agencies.
Bamidele also honoured security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue operation, including Lt. F. A. Isaac of the Nigerian Army, Private Silas Musa of the 81 Battalion, Nigerian Army, and Sgt. Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force.
The Senate also recognised Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain of the 81 Battalion, who sustained injuries during the operation, and urged authorities to provide him with adequate medical attention and necessary welfare support.
The lawmakers observed a minute’s silence in honour of the fallen officers and commiserated with their families, the Armed Forces, the police and the wider security community.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari praised the Federal Government and security agencies for securing the release of the abducted victims.
“We appreciate the Federal Government for bringing our children back,” he said.
Senator Adamu Aliero also commended the military but urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue other children still in captivity in Borno and Yobe states.
Meanwhile, Senator Adams Oshiomhole criticised Governor Seyi Makinde’s call for a United Nations-led investigation into the abduction, arguing that such a move could undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and the efforts of domestic security institutions.
“This is a time for us to unite, commend the achievements recorded and encourage our security agencies to sustain their efforts until peace and security are restored across the country,” Oshiomhole said.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, commended President Tinubu’s efforts in addressing insecurity and assured that the Senate would continue to support measures aimed at restoring peace and stability across the country.
