President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed security agencies to act swiftly and ensure the immediate rescue of the schoolgirls abducted from a boarding school in Maga, Kebbi State, promising that the children will be brought back home safely.
The President gave the assurance in a statement on Tuesday while announcing that Vice President Kashim Shettima will visit Kebbi State on Wednesday to commiserate with the government and the families affected by the attack.
According to the statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Vice President is to deliver the President’s message of solidarity and reassurance that the Federal Government is doing everything possible to secure the release of the girls.
Expressing deep grief over the incident, President Tinubu said he had received full briefings from military authorities regarding both the abduction and the separate loss of soldiers in Borno State.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces following the death of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other gallant troops who were killed in combat against insurgents.
“As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am depressed with the tragic death of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes”, President Tinubu said.
He also commended Kebbi State Governor, Dr Mohammed Nasir Idris, for efforts taken to prevent the kidnapping despite earlier intelligence warnings about the possible movement of bandits in the area.
President Tinubu strongly condemned the attack, lamenting the disruption of the education of innocent schoolgirls by terrorists.
He urged communities, especially those in security-prone regions, to strengthen cooperation with the military, police, and DSS by sharing timely intelligence that could prevent such breaches.
“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. I urge community leaders and our compatriots across the country, especially those in the theatres of operations, to share useful information. Your cooperation is crucial in our fight against these security challenges”, he said.
The President affirmed that the government remains fully committed to restoring peace across Nigeria and ensuring that schools remain safe for children.