Ndume Urges New Theatre Commander to Prioritise Rescue of Abducted Schoolchildren, Travellers

Senator representing Borno South, Mohammed Ali Ndume, has urged the new Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, to prioritise the safe recovery of abducted schoolchildren and travellers in Borno State.

Ndume made the appeal on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to Ajose at the Maimalari Military Cantonment in Maiduguri.

The meeting was held behind closed doors and focused on security challenges affecting Borno and the wider North-East, with the recovery of abducted persons featuring prominently in the discussions.

More than 40 pupils and students were abducted in Mussa, while more than 30 students were later kidnapped in Lassa. Several travellers, including a toddler, were also abducted following a terrorist ambush along the Biu-Buratai-Buni Yadi road in February 2026.

Speaking after the meeting, Ndume commended the military for its efforts to tackle insecurity but called for intensified operations to secure the release of those still in captivity.

“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.

Ndume said the recovery of the abductees remained his immediate concern as security agencies continue operations across the region.

The senator also urged the new Theatre Commander to sustain efforts aimed at protecting communities and restoring confidence among residents affected by insecurity.

Ajose assured Ndume that the military would continue its operations to combat insecurity and work towards improving security across the North-East.

The meeting comes as security agencies face continued pressure to rescue abducted civilians and strengthen protection along vulnerable routes in Borno and neighbouring states.