The Nigerian Senate has urged the Federal Government to intensify its ongoing military and intelligence operations targeting terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers across the country.

This appeal followed the unanimous adoption of a motion sponsored by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, alongside his colleagues, during a recent legislative session.

The lawmakers are demanding a major upgrade to the nation’s security efforts, specifically calling for the immediate procurement of advanced surveillance technology, modern combat equipment, and improved logistical support. Alongside technological improvements, the Senate emphasized the critical need for better welfare packages and training for frontline personnel.

They insist these aggressive measures must be sustained continuously until every citizen can live, work, and attend school without the constant fear of violence or abduction.

A major driver of the debate was the recent, highly celebrated rescue of thirty-nine school children and seven teachers who were abducted from the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The victims were successfully recovered on July 10, 2026, after a coordinated, fifty-day intelligence-driven operation that also resulted in the neutralization of several bandits and the arrest of eight suspects.

The Senate widely commended President Bola Tinubu and the Armed Forces for their decisive leadership and professional execution of the rescue mission, noting that the success has greatly restored hope to anxious parents and school communities nationwide.

However, the triumph came at a heavy cost. The Senate paid emotional tributes to three security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue mission, identifying them as Lieutenant F.A. Isaac of the Nigerian Army, Private Silas Musa of the Army’s 81 Battalion, and Police Sergeant Abena John Jerome.

The lawmakers observed a minute of silence in their honor and urged the federal government to ensure their families receive prompt payments of all statutory death benefits, insurance claims, and pensions.

They also requested immediate premium medical care and full welfare support for Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain, who sustained injuries during the operation.

While celebrating the rescue, the chamber also witnessed sharp political friction. Senator Adams Oshiomhole heavily criticized Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for publicly calling for a United Nations-led investigation into the school abduction. Oshiomhole argued that inviting external bodies like the UN to intervene in local security matters actively undermines Nigeria’s sovereignty and downplays the immense sacrifices of domestic security institutions.

In a supportive addition, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan stressed that the federal government must not overlook the aftermath of the ordeal, urging immediate psychological rehabilitation and trauma counseling for the rescued children and teachers.