Abuja – Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to Kebbi State following the mass abduction of schoolgirls from a boarding school in Maga. The President pledged that the government is working to ensure the swift and safe return of the students.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu conveyed his condolences to the grieving families and the military, which recently suffered casualties in Borno State, including the death of Brigadier General Musa Uba, while battling insurgents.
Intelligence Warning and Setbacks
The President revealed that the abduction in Kebbi State occurred “despite intelligence warnings of a possible strike by the bandits.” He commended the state’s Governor, Mohammed Nasir Idris, for efforts made to try and avert the kidnapping.
“As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am depressed with the tragic death of our soldiers and officers on active duty,” President Tinubu said, mourning the dual tragedies.
He added that he was equally troubled by the assault on the schoolchildren: “I am also depressed that heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi State.”
Call for Civilian Cooperation
Describing the attack as a painful setback, the President urged communities, particularly those in vulnerable areas, to increase cooperation with security operatives.
“Our security forces cannot succeed in protecting us if the people don’t cooperate and share information that will help them keep our communities safe,” he stressed. “Your cooperation is crucial in our fight against these security challenges.”
Vice President Shettima is expected to arrive in Kebbi on Wednesday. His mandate is to meet with state officials, reassure the affected parents, and personally convey the President’s message of solidarity and commitment to securing the release of the abducted girls.
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