By Ayomide Otitoju
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify search-and-rescue operations for students abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The directive, issued during an operational tour of Kebbi State on Monday, was disclosed in a statement on Tuesday by the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YANMA, Captain David Adewusi.
Addressing frontline commanders, Gen. Shaibu instructed troops to adopt intelligence-driven strategies and maintain relentless pressure on the abductors.
“We must find these children. Act decisively and professionally on all intelligence. Success is not optional,” he said.
He also met with local vigilantes and hunters, describing them as vital partners in the mission and urging them to use their knowledge of the terrain to support ongoing military operations.
“Together, we will restore peace and ensure children can attend school safely,” he added.
Earlier, the COAS paid condolence visits to the Traditional Ruler of Danko, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Allaje, and the Principal of GGCSS Maga, Hajiya Rabi Musa Magaji, assuring them of the Army’s commitment to rescuing the students unharmed. He further urged troops to remain professional, disciplined, and guided by the rules of engagement as they work to restore stability in the region.
Bandits Kill Vice Principal, Abduct 25 Schoolgirls
Twenty-five students were abducted on Sunday night when armed bandits attacked GGCSS Maga. The assailants reportedly killed the school’s Vice Principal, Malam Hassan Makuku, who was said to have attempted to protect the students during the invasion.
Witnesses said the attackers operated unchallenged, plunging the community into fear and grief.
FG Condemns Attack, Pledges Swift Rescue
The Federal Government has condemned the attack and vowed to ensure the safe return of the abducted schoolgirls. In a statement issued Monday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said security and intelligence agencies have been directed to locate and rescue the students and bring the perpetrators to justice.
He added that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to safeguarding all Nigerians, especially schoolchildren.
Gov. Nasir Idris Reassures Parents
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has assured parents of the abducted students that efforts are underway to rescue their children. Speaking after visiting the scene of the attack and meeting with security agencies, traditional leaders, and parents, the governor said authorities are doing everything possible to ensure the safe return of the schoolgirls.
“We gave them confidence and our word that we will do everything possible to ensure their children are rescued,” he said.
