The Senate on Tuesday threw its weight behind ongoing military operations across the country, urging the Federal Government to intensify the battle against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal groups threatening lives and livelihoods in different parts of Nigeria.

The lawmakers said the fight against insecurity must remain relentless until every Nigerian can live, work, travel and attend school without fear of attack.

The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC-Ekiti Central), and co-sponsored by senators across party lines during plenary in Abuja.

In its resolutions, the upper chamber called for greater investment in the nation's security architecture, including the acquisition of modern combat equipment, deployment of cutting-edge surveillance technology, improved intelligence gathering, enhanced logistics and better welfare packages for security personnel.

The Senate stressed that while security agencies have recorded notable successes in recent months, sustained support from the government remains critical to consolidating those gains and defeating criminal networks operating across the country.

Lawmakers also demanded the prompt payment of insurance claims, pensions, death benefits and other entitlements owed to the families of security personnel who lost their lives while defending the nation.

The Senate further advocated increased funding for the training, welfare and operational capacity of members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, describing them as the frontline defenders of Nigeria's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The renewed call came as senators celebrated the successful rescue of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, an operation they described as a major victory against criminal elements.

Commending President Bola Tinubu, the military and intelligence agencies, Bamidele said the rescue mission reflected the growing effectiveness of Nigeria's security institutions when adequately supported and coordinated.

According to him, following the abduction of the pupils and teachers on May 15, President Tinubu immediately directed security agencies to deploy every lawful means necessary to secure their freedom.

He noted that after more than 50 days of intelligence-led operations, the victims were rescued on July 10, while eight suspected terrorists were arrested and several others neutralised during the operation.

Bamidele said the outcome had restored public confidence and provided reassurance to parents and communities worried about the safety of schoolchildren.

"The successful operation demonstrates what can be achieved through coordination, professionalism and commitment by our security forces," he said.

Despite celebrating the rescue, the Senate paid tribute to security personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice during the mission.

Those honoured included Lt. F.A. Isaac of the Nigerian Army, Private Silas Musa of the 81 Battalion and Sgt. Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force, all of whom lost their lives in the line of duty.

The chamber also recognised Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain of the 81 Battalion, who sustained injuries during the operation, urging authorities to ensure he receives adequate medical care and all benefits due to him.

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A solemn minute of silence was observed in honour of the fallen officers, as senators extended condolences to their families and colleagues in the security services.

Contributing to the debate, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari (APC-Oyo) expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and the military for securing the release of the victims.

He described the rescue as a source of relief for affected families and communities, noting that the return of the children had renewed hope among many Nigerians.

Senator Adamu Aliero (APC-Kebbi) also praised the Armed Forces but urged security agencies not to relent, pointing out that several children remain in captivity in parts of Borno and Yobe States.

He called for intensified efforts to secure the release of all remaining victims of abduction across the country.

The debate took a political turn when Senator Adams Oshiomhole criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his call for a United Nations-backed investigation into the abduction.

According to Oshiomhole, inviting external bodies to intervene in matters of domestic security could send the wrong signal about Nigeria's ability to address its own challenges.

He argued that the focus should be on supporting and strengthening local institutions that have demonstrated their capacity to deliver results.

"This is a moment to recognise the sacrifices and achievements of our security agencies and encourage them to do more, not to undermine their efforts," he said.

On her part, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP-Kogi) urged the government to go beyond the physical rescue of the victims by providing psychological support, trauma counselling and rehabilitation programmes to help them recover from their ordeal.

She noted that many victims of abduction often carry emotional scars long after regaining their freedom and deserve adequate care and support.

Presiding over the session, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau reaffirmed the Senate's commitment to supporting measures aimed at improving national security.

Barau praised President Tinubu's efforts in tackling insecurity and expressed confidence that continued collaboration between the executive and security agencies would help reverse the country's security challenges.

He maintained that while significant work remains to be done, recent successes recorded by security forces show that Nigeria is making progress in the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.