President Bola Tinubu has instructed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to Kebbi State today (Wednesday) on a solidarity visit following the abduction of schoolgirls from a boarding school in Maga.
According to the Presidency, the visit aims to deliver the Federal Government’s sympathy to the state, reassure worried parents and guardians, and reaffirm the administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safe and speedy return of the kidnapped students.
The President has also sent his condolences to the Nigerian military over the death of brave soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba, who lost their lives while battling insurgents in Borno State.
He described their deaths as a painful reminder of the courage and dedication required to defend the nation.
Tinubu, who was briefed by military authorities on both tragic incidents, expressed deep sadness that the abduction occurred despite intelligence reports warning of a possible bandit attack in the area.
He praised Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for his proactive efforts to prevent the kidnapping and called for stronger cooperation between state officials and security agencies.
Condemning the security lapse that allowed the abduction, the President said the attack was not only an assault on the affected community but also a direct setback to the nation’s efforts to guarantee safe and uninterrupted education for all Nigerian children.
He said the incident highlights the need for stronger community vigilance and better intelligence-sharing between residents and security personnel, especially in areas facing ongoing threats from criminal gangs.
President Tinubu stressed that security agencies cannot function effectively without the active support of citizens.
He urged community leaders, traditional rulers, local vigilante groups, and residents to provide timely and credible information that could help track down the perpetrators and prevent future incidents.
“As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am deeply pained by the tragic deaths of our soldiers and officers while performing their sacred duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier-General Musa Uba and our other fallen heroes, and may their courage continue to inspire the nation,” the President said.
He added that the abduction of innocent schoolgirls was especially troubling, noting that no society can allow criminals driven by greed and cruelty to disrupt children’s education.
“I am equally 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,” Tinubu stated.
The President reaffirmed that his administration remains determined to restore peace to all troubled parts of the country.
He assured Nigerians that the ongoing security reforms — from increased recruitment to better equipment and technology — are designed to strengthen the nation’s ability to tackle insurgency, banditry, and other emerging threats.
“Our security forces cannot succeed in protecting us if the people do not cooperate and share information that will help them make our communities safe. I urge community leaders and compatriots, especially those in the theatres of operation, to share useful information. Your cooperation is crucial to overcoming these security challenges,” he said.
Vice President Shettima is expected to meet with state officials, families of the abducted girls, traditional rulers, and security commanders during his visit.
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