Former Senate Leader, Senator Ali Ndume, has urged the Nigerian military to intensify efforts to rescue schoolchildren and other victims abducted by insurgents in Southern Borno.
Ndume made the appeal during a visit to the Theatre Command, North East Operation Hadin Kai, where he met with the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar.
According to a statement from his media office, 42 pupils were abducted from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Mussa in May.
In June, insurgents reportedly attacked Government Day Secondary School in Lassa, Askira/Uba Local Government Area, and abducted 36 students and a teacher.
Ndume, who represents Borno South in the National Assembly, commended the military for its efforts to combat insurgency and restore relative peace in the region.
He said his appeal for stronger action should not be seen as criticism of the military but as part of his responsibility to speak for affected communities.
“We know you are making efforts, but because of the anxiety we all share and the length of time these people have remained away from their families, I have to continue to push for greater effort,” he said.
“The people are anxious, and the families are waiting. We appreciate what the military is doing, but we will continue to appeal for greater efforts until our people are reunited with their families.”
Ndume also praised the coordination among security agencies, saying it had contributed to improved security in parts of Borno State.
Responding, General Abubakar said the concerns raised by the senator had been noted. He assured that the military and other security agencies would continue operations to protect communities and work towards the safe return of those still in captivity.
The Theatre Commander said the military would strengthen its presence in vulnerable areas through new formations, additional troop deployments and improved operations.
He also disclosed plans to recruit about 1,000 youths from Southern Borno, mainly from Gwoza Local Government Area, to strengthen security operations in the region.