Senate Urges FG to Intensify Efforts to Rescue Abducted Nigerians

The Senate has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Nigerians held captive by kidnappers and strengthen the protection of communities facing security threats.

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, made the call on Tuesday as the Senate resumed plenary following its annual recess, which began on July 23, 2026.

Akpabio said the Senate would use its legislative, budgetary and oversight powers to support efforts to address insecurity, flooding and the rising cost of living confronting Nigerians.

He urged security agencies to step up operations aimed at rescuing abducted citizens and protecting vulnerable communities, adding that the Senate would review existing measures and consider additional interventions where necessary.

“So long as a single Nigerian languishes in captivity, a part of Nigeria is itself captive, and this chamber cannot call itself free of the burden,” he said.

The Senate President stressed that government institutions must ensure that citizens are not left exposed to security threats, noting that the protection of lives remains a fundamental responsibility of the state.

“We cannot summon citizens to courage and then leave them to face danger alone. Their safety is a charge laid upon us and upon every institution of government, particularly this Nigerian Senate,” he said.

Akpabio said the Senate could not resume after its recess without confronting the challenges affecting Nigerians, noting that while plenary proceedings were suspended, the difficulties facing citizens continued.

“We adjourned since the 23rd day of July, 2026. The sittings of the Senate ceased in plenary for a season, but the life of Nigeria did not cease,” he said.

He added that the effectiveness of government should ultimately be reflected in safer communities, improved livelihoods and a stronger country for present and future generations.

“Our victories should be measured in safer communities, better livelihoods for all Nigerians, and a stronger country for those we serve and for generations unborn,” he said.

The Senate President expressed particular concern over the continued abduction of Nigerians by armed groups, stressing that the government’s response must go beyond expressions of sympathy.

“Sympathies alone cannot discharge our duties. They are entitled to our attention, our resolve and the full force of our constitutional responsibilities,” he stated.