The federal government has restated its determination to secure the release of Nigerians held captive by bandits, with Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume pledging that no effort would be spared to bring them home safely.

Akume gave the assurance while hosting members of the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria, led by National Amirah Sumaye Fadimatu Hamza, in Abuja. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening national security and expressed optimism that ongoing operations would yield results against kidnapping and other crimes.

He said the purpose of government was to protect and prolong life rather than shorten it, and that everything was being done to free those in captivity. He praised the association as a partner in promoting peace, unity and social progress, and urged faith based organizations to intensify prayers for the administration.

Hamza said the association remained committed to advancing the socio-economic development of women, youths and children through education, healthcare, humanitarian work and advocacy, and commended the government’s efforts on security and women’s development.

She urged stronger security measures, including improved intelligence gathering, greater community engagement and attention to the socio-economic drivers of insecurity, and sought support for the renovation of the association’s secretariat, additional empowerment centres and its forthcoming national conference in Abia State.