Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume has urged the military to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of abducted schoolchildren from Lassa and Musa, as well as passengers kidnapped along the Biu-bound road in Borno State.
Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the newly deployed Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Major General A. I. Ajose, at the Maimalari Military Cantonment, Maiduguri.
The meeting, held behind closed doors, focused on security challenges in Borno State and the wider North-East, with the safe recovery of the abductees featuring prominently among the senator’s immediate concerns.
Speaking after the meeting, Ndume commended the Nigerian military for its sustained efforts to tackle insecurity but urged troops to intensify operations to ensure the safe return of the victims.
“The Army must be commended. Alhamdulillah, the security situation is improving. Most of what we discussed will not be disclosed because they are security matters, but certainly, the safe release of the Lassa and Musa schoolchildren and the Biu travellers is my priority for now,” he said.
The former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army also highlighted the strategic importance of major roads linking communities in Borno South, particularly the Gombe–Biu and Damboa–Maiduguri roads.
He said he had consistently advocated the construction and improvement of the roads because of their importance to security, commercial activities and the movement of people.
According to him, better road infrastructure would support economic activities and improve connectivity among communities in the state.
Ndume also welcomed the salary increase for military personnel approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as an important step towards improving the welfare and motivation of members of the Armed Forces.
He noted that better welfare for troops would complement their sacrifices and support ongoing efforts to protect communities across the country.
Earlier, Major General Ajose described Ndume as a friend of the military, saying the visit provided an opportunity to discuss security challenges affecting the North-East.
The Theatre Commander appreciated the senator for consistently prioritising the security and welfare of his constituents and assured that the military would continue to build on its achievements in the fight against insecurity.
