Senator Ndume Applauds Military Bravery as Army’s Coordinated Offensive Rescues 12 Abducted Girls in Southern Borno

The lawmaker representing Borno South, Senator Ali Ndume, has praised the Nigerian Army for what he described as a “courageous, intelligence-driven and patriotic operation” that led to the rescue of 12 teenage girls abducted by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters in Mussa District of Askira/Uba Local Government Area, Borno State.

The victims, aged between 15 and 20, were kidnapped last Sunday while harvesting crops in their family farmlands—an activity that has become increasingly dangerous in recent years due to sustained terrorist incursions in farming communities across the Northeast. Their abduction followed a pattern of attacks where terrorists often target young girls and women for forced labour, indoctrination, and exploitation.

According to a detailed statement released by the Nigerian Army, the rescue took place on Saturday under Operation HADIN KAI, the ongoing counterterrorism operation across the Northeast. The army said the success of the mission hinged on timely intelligence, coordinated ground manoeuvres, and a swift tactical response executed by troops deployed in southern Borno. The girls were immediately evacuated to a secure military facility, where they are currently undergoing full medical evaluation and receiving psychosocial support.

In Abuja, Senator Ndume issued a statement commending the troops’ professionalism, resilience, and unwavering commitment. He emphasised that the operation demonstrated the Nigerian military’s ability to act decisively when provided with actionable intelligence and adequate operational support.

“Over the weekend, men of the Nigerian Army in the Borno theatre achieved another remarkable feat with the successful rescue of all 12 abducted teenagers,” Ndume said. “This operation is yet another demonstration of professionalism and selflessness in the face of extraordinary adversities.”

Ndume, a long-time advocate for stronger military support in the Northeast, described the rescue not only as a victory for the Nigerian Army but also as a moment of relief for communities that have repeatedly been subjected to terror attacks. He maintained that despite resource limitations, extreme weather conditions, and the complexities of irregular warfare, troops continue to demonstrate an exceptional level of patriotism.

He further noted that the soldiers serving in Borno and other parts of the Northeast remain the frontline defenders of Nigeria’s territorial integrity, often risking their lives to safeguard civilians across the region. Ndume expressed deep appreciation for the troops, describing their actions as “heroic” and deserving of national recognition.

“I will continue to appeal to the sense of patriotism of men of the Nigerian Army to remain determined in their mission to destroy the evil forces driven by misguided ideology and a desire for vain glorification,” Ndume added. “These criminals aim to instill fear, disrupt livelihoods, and cripple the spirit of our people, but our security forces are proving that they will not succeed.”

The senator reiterated his consistent position that the Federal Government must prioritise the welfare, training, and operational funding of the military—warning that any gaps in resource allocation could hinder national security efforts. He stressed that sustained funding is essential not only for equipment and logistics but also for addressing the emotional and psychological needs of troops who confront the horrors of war daily.

Ndume also called for improved collaboration between military authorities, local hunters, community vigilantes, and intelligence networks in remote communities. He argued that grassroots intelligence remains one of the most critical tools for counter-terrorism efforts, especially in rugged terrains like southern Borno where terrorists often hide in forests and rocky enclaves.

In describing the broader context, Ndume explained that farmlands in Mussa District and surrounding communities have become recurrent targets for terrorist attacks due to the strategic importance of agriculture in the region. Many residents depend on farming for survival, and terrorists frequently exploit the vulnerability of farmers—particularly women and children—to launch kidnappings and extortion campaigns.

Security analysts in the region also welcomed the rescue operation, saying it reflects improved synergy between the Nigerian Army’s ground operations and its newly strengthened intelligence units. Some experts, however, urged the government to ensure that the girls receive long-term rehabilitation, noting that victims of terrorist abduction often suffer severe psychological trauma requiring continuous support.

Parents and community leaders in Mussa District expressed relief following the rescue but appealed to the government to provide stronger local security presence. They noted that while the military’s quick response was commendable, rural communities remain exposed to random attacks, especially during the harvest season.

Meanwhile, humanitarian groups operating in Borno said the rescue operation underscored the urgent need for improved safety measures in farming areas. They argued that food security is tied to physical security, and without protection for farmers, communities risk economic collapse and higher levels of displacement.

As the rescued girls undergo further evaluation, the Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining pressure on terror groups across the Northeast. The leadership warned that additional operations are underway to dismantle terrorist cells still active in difficult terrains within Borno.

For Senator Ndume, the rescue represents a moment of hope and a reminder that the sacrifices of Nigerian soldiers continue to yield results even when national attention shifts elsewhere. He restated that the ultimate victory over terrorism requires sustained military, political, and community support.

The successful rescue of the 12 girls, he said, is evidence that “with the right support, motivation, and coordinated strategy, the Nigerian military will continue to break the backbone of terrorism and restore peace to Borno and the entire Northeast.”