President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi State on a sympathy and solidarity mission following the abduction of schoolgirls in the Maga area of the state.
The Vice President is expected to reassure affected parents and guardians that the Federal Government is working tirelessly to secure the girls’ swift and safe release.
The President also extended his condolences to the Nigerian military over the deaths of several soldiers, including Brigadier General Musa Uba, who lost their lives in active combat against insurgents in Borno State.
Tinubu said he was deeply saddened by the loss, noting that the fallen officers paid the ultimate price in defense of the nation.
Fully briefed by military authorities on both incidents, President Tinubu expressed concern that the Kebbi school abduction took place despite prior intelligence warnings of a possible attack.
He commended Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for efforts made to avert the kidnapping, while lamenting the security breach that allowed the bandits to strike.
The President called on communities—especially those in areas facing security threats—to share information and intelligence with the military, police, and DSS. He emphasized that security agencies would not operate effectively without the support and cooperation of citizens.
As Commander-in-Chief, Tinubu said he was “deeply depressed” by the tragic deaths of soldiers and prayed for comfort for the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops under Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify search-and-rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the abducted schoolgirls.
