The Nigerian Senate has approved a ₦50 million donation to the families of security personnel and teachers who lost their lives during the military operation to rescue pupils and staff abducted from a school in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, where lawmakers also commended the Armed Forces and other security agencies for successfully rescuing the kidnapped victims after 56 days in captivity.
According to Akpabio, the Senate approved the intervention as a gesture of support for the bereaved families.
Under the arrangement, ₦10 million will be presented to the next of kin of each of the five victims who died during the rescue operation.
The Senate President said the donation reflects the National Assembly’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by the fallen personnel and educators in the service of the nation.
The rescue operation targeted an Ansaru terrorist network operating within the Old Oyo National Park.
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife, disclosed that three military personnel were killed during the month-long offensive against the terrorists.
The operation also involved local security volunteers, including hunters and operatives of the Amotekun Corps, several of whom reportedly lost their lives while supporting the joint mission.
During plenary, senators praised the Nigerian military and other security agencies for their coordinated efforts, which led to the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and school staff after nearly two months in captivity.
Lawmakers described the operation as a demonstration of the Armed Forces’ commitment to protecting lives despite the dangers faced by personnel on the frontlines.
Paying tribute to the victims, Akpabio said the Senate’s donation is intended to provide financial relief to their families while recognising the courage and sacrifice displayed during the rescue mission.
He noted that the fallen security personnel and teachers paid the ultimate price in the effort to secure the freedom of innocent Nigerians.
The Senate also reiterated its support for members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies engaged in combating terrorism, kidnapping, and other forms of insecurity across the country.
