Nigeria Senate urges security agencies to intensify kidnapping rescue efforts

The Nigerian Senate has resumed plenary following its annual recess, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio setting a legislative agenda focused on national security, economic relief, and flood response. Akpabio issued a strong call to security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue citizens held captive by armed groups, stating that the nation cannot be considered free while individuals remain in captivity.

In addition to addressing the kidnapping epidemic, the Senate highlighted the need to tackle the rising cost of living and the impact of recent flooding on communities and food security. Lawmakers pledged to utilize their powers of legislation, appropriation, and oversight to support security institutions and provide relief to affected citizens.

Separately, former Senate President Bukola Saraki suggested that Nigeria should seek global collaboration and learn from countries that have successfully managed similar kidnapping and banditry challenges to find effective long-term solutions.