Former Senate Leader and Borno South lawmaker, Senator Ali Ndume, has praised the Nigerian Army for successfully rescuing 12 teenage girls abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents in Mussa District, Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Ndume applauded the troops for what he described as a demonstration of professionalism, courage and unwavering dedication to protecting Nigerians.
According to the Army, the girls — aged between 15 and 20 — were kidnapped a week earlier while working on their family farmlands. They were freed on Saturday following a “swift, intelligence-led operation” conducted by troops of Operation HADIN KAI. The rescued victims have been moved to a safe location for medical evaluation.
Ndume, a former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, commended the military personnel for their resilience and sacrifices despite the difficult terrain and security challenges in the North-East.
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He said,
“Over the weekend, soldiers in the Borno theatre achieved another landmark feat with the rescue of all 12 abducted teenagers. This operation reflects professionalism and selfless service.”
The senator urged the Federal Government to prioritise improved funding for the military and review their compensation packages to motivate personnel.
His remarks come days after the Senate approved a death penalty recommendation for convicted kidnappers, describing kidnapping as an act of terrorism.
The resolution followed the November 18 attack on Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, in Kwara State, where two worshippers were killed and 38 congregants abducted. Although the victims were eventually rescued, lawmakers warned that rising attacks on schools, highways and religious centres show how insurgent activities are spreading into rural communities.
They also noted that repeated school kidnappings had led to the temporary closure of schools in Kebbi, Niger and Kwara states, including all 47 Federal Unity Colleges nationwide.
