President Tinubu Condemns Abduction of Kebbi Schoolgirls, Honors Fallen Soldiers

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conveyed profound sorrow over the recent tragic events involving the abduction of 25 schoolgirls from a Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, and the loss of Brigadier General Musa Uba alongside other gallant soldiers in Borno State during counterinsurgency operations.

In a directive issued on Tuesday, President Tinubu asked Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi State on Wednesday to express condolence and assure the families, guardians, and the state government of the federal government’s unwavering commitment to securing the swift release of the kidnapped schoolgirls. The President commended Kebbi Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for his tireless efforts to prevent the abduction and for his ongoing support in managing the crisis.

The attack on the boarding school occurred around 4 a.m. Monday when armed assailants stormed the campus, killing the school’s vice-principal, Hassan Yakubu Makuku, and injuring another staff member before abducting the girls. Despite prior intelligence warnings, the breach highlighted significant security challenges.

Expressing deep sadness, President Tinubu acknowledged the painful sacrifice of Brigadier General Musa Uba, who was killed while leading troops in a successful air-ground operation against insurgents in Borno’s Damboa–Biu axis. The General’s death, confirmed after reports of his capture and execution by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants, underscores the ongoing violent conflict in the region.

President Tinubu used the somber incidents to call on communities across Nigeria, particularly those in volatile areas, to enhance cooperation with security forces by sharing timely intelligence. He emphasized that the success of the military, police, and intelligence agencies in protecting citizens depends heavily on community support.

“As Commander-in-Chief, I am profoundly depressed by the tragic loss of our soldiers and officers while on active duty. May God provide comfort to the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes,” the President said. “It is equally distressing that terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have ordered security agencies to act decisively to ensure their safe return.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Security operations continue, with military and local hunters intensifying the search in forests surrounding the school and along escape routes. Meanwhile, one of the abducted schoolgirls has reportedly escaped captivity and returned safely, raising hopes for the rescue of the remaining victims.

President Tinubu’s message stresses a united front against terrorism and banditry, highlighting the critical need for vigilance, intelligence sharing, and community collaboration in safeguarding Nigeria’s future ​.