The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their extraordinary sacrifices and achievements despite limited resources. He stated that the military continues to accomplish tasks many considered impossible amid financial constraints.
Agbese made the remarks while reacting to the recent rescue of 360 abductees by troops of Operation Hadin Kai from the Mandara Mountains, a notorious insurgent enclave in southern Borno State. The Labour Party lawmaker, representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, said the successful operation underscored the resilience, professionalism, and commitment of the Armed Forces in the ongoing battle against terrorism and insurgency.
In a statement issued to journalists on Tuesday, Agbese particularly praised the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for providing strategic leadership that has continued to yield tangible results across various theatres of military operations. According to him, the rescue of hundreds of abductees from a long-standing terrorist stronghold is further evidence that Nigeria’s security forces remain determined to restore peace and stability despite complex challenges.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria have continued to demonstrate exceptional courage and professionalism under very difficult circumstances,” Agbese said. “Despite financial limitations and operational challenges, our troops have remained focused on protecting the nation and defending innocent citizens. The recent rescue of 360 abductees from the Mandara Mountains is one of the most significant operations recorded in recent times. It speaks volumes about the dedication of our military personnel and the effectiveness of the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign.”
The federal lawmaker noted that military personnel operating in difficult terrains across the North-East and other parts of the country deserve greater national support and appreciation for the sacrifices they make daily. He observed that the Armed Forces have continued to record successes against criminal and terrorist groups through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced coordination among security agencies, and the unwavering commitment of frontline troops.
Agbese also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustaining support for the military and providing the political backing required to strengthen national security operations. He said the progress being recorded in the fight against insurgency reflects the combined efforts of the Federal Government, military leadership, and security agencies working towards a common objective of securing the country.
The lawmaker reserved special praise for General Oluyede, describing the Chief of Defence Staff as a disciplined and result-oriented military leader whose strategic direction has enhanced operational efficiency across the Armed Forces. “General Oluyede has shown remarkable leadership at a critical period in our nation’s security journey,” he said. “The results being recorded across various theatres of operation are a testament to his commitment, professionalism, and dedication to national service.”
Agbese further urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces through cooperation, information sharing, and encouragement, stressing that national security remains a collective responsibility. He expressed optimism that with sustained public support, improved funding, and continued collaboration among security agencies, the military would record even greater successes in ongoing operations against insurgents, bandits, and other criminal elements threatening national peace and stability.
The lawmaker added that the rescue of the 360 abductees should serve as a source of hope to affected communities and a reminder that the nation’s security forces remain committed to ensuring that no Nigerian is abandoned to the hands of terrorists and criminal elements. At a time when the country’s security agencies continue to confront multiple threats across different regions, Agbese said the achievements of the Armed Forces deserve recognition, while renewed investment in personnel welfare, equipment, and operational capacity remains essential to consolidating the gains already recorded.
