Maga, Kebbi State, Nigeria (FN) — Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu has ordered troops to intensify search-and-rescue operations for 25 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, amid growing fears for their safety.
Shaibu, who visited Kebbi on Monday following the attack, directed commanders to conduct relentless, intelligence-driven missions “day and night” until the girls are rescued. He told soldiers that success was “not optional” and urged them to act decisively on all credible intelligence.
Armed bandits stormed the school in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area early Sunday, killing Vice Principal Malam Hassan Makuku before abducting the students. Witnesses said the attackers scaled the school’s fence and fired sporadically, causing panic among students and staff.
The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying tactical units engaged the gunmen but were unable to prevent the abduction. The Nigerian government condemned the attack, with Information Minister Mohammed Idris pledging swift action to secure the girls’ release.
Shaibu emphasized collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, describing them as “critical partners” in navigating the difficult terrain and tracking the abductors. He warned that bandits deliberately target schools and other soft spots, urging commanders to adopt superior strategies to counter their tactics.
The abduction has renewed concerns about insecurity in northwestern Nigeria, where bandit groups have carried out repeated kidnappings for ransom. The attack recalls earlier mass abductions in Chibok in 2014 and Dapchi in 2018, which drew global outrage.
As rescue operations continue, communities in Kebbi remain on edge, mourning the slain vice principal and praying for the safe return of the abducted girls.
