Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, has urged the Nigerian military and other security agencies to build on the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State by intensifying efforts to secure the release of dozens of victims still being held by kidnappers in parts of Borno State.

Speaking after the rescue operation that led to the freedom of the Oyo schoolchildren and teachers, the lawmaker described the mission as proof that Nigeria’s security agencies have the capacity to rescue abducted victims when provided with the necessary support, intelligence and operational resources.

Ndume disclosed that at least 79 people remain in captivity across communities in his senatorial district. According to him, 42 residents from Mussa are still being held by kidnappers, while about 37 others abducted from Lassa, including students preparing for the National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations, are yet to regain their freedom.

He added that several victims kidnapped from Moushi and travellers abducted along the Buratai axis also remain in the custody of their captors, leaving families devastated and desperate for their safe return.

The senator appealed to the military not to relent in ongoing operations, stressing that many of the victims are children and young students whose families have continued to endure emotional trauma since their abduction.

While commending the Armed Forces and other security agencies for successfully rescuing the Oyo victims, Ndume noted that the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-led security interventions.

He also praised security operatives for reportedly neutralising several suspected kidnappers during the operation and arresting others, expressing optimism that intelligence gathered from those apprehended could help dismantle criminal networks and strengthen future rescue missions.

Ndume maintained that Nigeria’s security agencies possess the capability to tackle insecurity but require sustained motivation, improved training, modern equipment and enhanced air support to effectively confront armed criminal groups across the country.

He urged the military to sustain the momentum generated by the Oyo rescue operation and ensure that the remaining captives in Mussa, Lassa, Moushi and communities along the Buratai corridor are safely reunited with their families.