Ndume Urges Military to Rescue Abducted Schoolchildren, Biu-Bound Travellers

Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, has urged the military to intensify efforts to rescue the schoolchildren and travellers abducted by terrorists in Borno State.

Ndume made the appeal on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the newly deployed Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, at the Maimalari Military Cantonment in Maiduguri.

The closed-door meeting focused on security challenges in Borno and the wider North-East, with the safe recovery of the abducted victims listed among Ndume’s major concerns.

More than 40 pupils and students were reportedly abducted in Mussa, while over 30 students were later kidnapped in Lassa. In addition, several passengers, including a toddler, were abducted during a terrorist ambush along the Biu-Buratai-Buni Yadi road in February 2026.

Speaking after the meeting, Ndume commended the military for its efforts in tackling insecurity but called for intensified operations to secure the release 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 senator also highlighted the importance of major roads connecting Borno South, particularly the Gombe-Biu and Damboa-Maiduguri roads. He said he had consistently advocated for their construction and rehabilitation because of their importance to security, trade and the movement of people.

Ndume, a former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, also welcomed the recent salary increase approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for military personnel.

According to him, improved welfare for members of the Armed Forces would boost their morale and complement their sacrifices in protecting communities across the country.

Earlier, Major General Ajose described Ndume as a friend of the military and said the senator’s visit provided an opportunity to discuss critical security issues affecting the North-East.

He appreciated Ndume 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.

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