COAS Directs Intensified Rescue Operation for 25 Abducted Kebbi Schoolgirls

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered an intensified military operation to rescue the 25 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) in Maga, Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State. This decisive directive was issued during General Shaibu’s operational visit to Kebbi on Monday, 17 November 2025.

During the visit, Gen Shaibu addressed frontline commanders and troops participating in Operation FANSAN YANMA, the search-and-rescue mission focused on recovering the kidnapped students. He instructed the troops to conduct intelligence-driven, relentless day-and-night pursuits of the abductors. “We must find these children. Act decisively and professionally on all intelligence. Success is not optional,” he stated firmly.

In a collaborative approach, the COAS also engaged local vigilantes and hunters, highlighting their critical role due to their terrain knowledge. He urged joint efforts between security forces and local communities to capture and neutralize the kidnappers, assuring that this partnership is essential for restoring peace in the area and enabling safe schooling.

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Earlier, Gen Shaibu paid condolence visits to the Traditional Ruler of Danko, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Allaje, and the Principal of GGCSS Maga, Hajiya Rabi Musa Magaji, reassuring them of the military’s unwavering commitment to bringing back the abducted students unharmed.

The abduction occurred during an armed attack on the school by bandits, who killed the Vice Principal Hassan Makuku while he tried to shield the students. The attack caused widespread panic as gunmen stormed the school, firing sporadically and forcibly taking the girls from their dormitory. The security forces have since been mobilized to track and rescue the kidnapped girls, with intensified efforts ongoing through coordinated intelligence and tactical operations.

Gen Shaibu enjoined all troops to maintain resilience, discipline, and professionalism, emphasizing adherence to rules of engagement in the restoration of security and peace to Kebbi and neighboring areas. This commitment underscores the national priority placed on protecting educational institutions and the safety of children in volatile regions ​​.