President Bola Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi State today (Wednesday) in solidarity with the victims of the abduction of schoolgirls from a boarding school in Maga.
According to a statement from the Presidency, the visit is to convey the Federal Government’s sympathy, reassure worried parents, and reaffirm its commitment to ensuring the “safe and swift return” of the abducted schoolchildren.
The President also extended condolences to the Nigerian military over the death of soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba, who were killed while confronting insurgents in Borno State. He described their deaths as “a painful reminder of the courage and dedication required to safeguard the nation.”
Tinubu, who received a full briefing from military authorities on both incidents, expressed regret that the Kebbi abduction occurred despite prior intelligence warnings. He commended Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for “proactive steps” taken to prevent the attack and called for stronger collaboration among security stakeholders.
“The attack is not only an assault on the community but a direct blow to our quest to ensure safe and uninterrupted education for every Nigerian child,” he said.
Tinubu emphasised the need for improved community vigilance, noting that security operations depend heavily on civilian cooperation. “Our security forces cannot succeed if the people do not share information that will help keep our communities safe,” he said.
He condemned the abduction as particularly heartbreaking. “I am deeply distressed that heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed our security agencies to mobilise all necessary resources to ensure the girls are safely returned to Kebbi State without delay.”
On the fallen military personnel, the President said: “May God comfort the families of Brigadier-General Musa Uba and our other fallen heroes, and may their courage continue to inspire the nation.”
Tinubu reaffirmed that ongoing security reforms, including expanded recruitment, technology upgrades and improved equipment, are designed to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against insurgency and banditry.
Vice President Shettima is expected to meet state officials, families of the abducted girls, traditional rulers and security commanders during the visit.
