Shaibu arrives Kebbi as military intensifies rescue operation
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops of the Nigerian Army to launch a full-scale offensive to rescue the schoolgirls abducted during Friday’s attack in Kebbi State. Shaibu, who arrived the state on Monday in a decisive show of command presence, directed operational commanders to “go all out” and ensure that every abducted child is safely brought home.
His visit followed rising anxiety among parents and community leaders after dozens of students were kidnapped by armed bandits who stormed the school in the early hours of the morning, forcing several children into the forest.
Security sources confirmed that the attack bore similarities with previous mass-kidnap patterns associated with armed groups operating along the Kebbi-Zamfara-Sokoto corridor.
Army vows relentless pursuit of bandits
Addressing frontline commanders at the 8 Division headquarters, Shaibu said no effort would be spared in dismantling the criminal networks responsible for the attack. He stressed that the operation must be swift, intelligence-driven and sustained until the last schoolgirl is accounted for.
“These criminals must understand that the Nigerian state will not tolerate the abduction of our children,” he said. “Our mandate is clear — go all out, dominate the area, and bring every one of those innocent girls back to their families.”
He also assured residents that additional troops, air assets and surveillance equipment had been deployed to tighten the cordon around forest hideouts believed to be harbouring the bandits.
Community expresses fear as search continues
In the affected community, fear and uncertainty remain high. Parents who spoke to journalists described the situation as “traumatic” and pleaded with authorities to act decisively. Local vigilantes have also joined the search, though the military has urged them to operate only in coordination with security agencies to avoid complications.
A village elder explained that the attackers moved with “unusual boldness,” forcing their way into classrooms before herding the girls away. He said the community had repeatedly appealed for a stronger security presence prior to the incident.
Federal and state governments pledge support
The Kebbi State Government, in a statement, welcomed Shaibu’s quick intervention and assured families that both state and federal authorities were fully committed to rescuing the victims. Governor Nasir Idris reportedly held an emergency security meeting with service commanders and community representatives, outlining immediate relief support for affected families.
The Federal Government also condemned the attack, stressing that the ongoing military operations in the North-West would be expanded to curb the wave of abductions targeting schools and rural communities.
Military emphasises intelligence collaboration
Army intelligence units are said to be working closely with the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters, and community informants to track the movement of the abductors. Senior officers disclosed that early signals suggest the bandits may be splitting into smaller groups to evade detection — a tactic commonly used when fleeing hot pursuit.
Shaibu emphasised the importance of real-time intelligence and warned troops against complacency. He urged commanders to maintain pressure and ensure constant situational awareness.
“This is not the time for half-measures. The eyes of the entire nation are on this operation,” he said.
Appeal for calm as rescue mission intensifies
Despite the tension, military authorities have appealed for calm, urging citizens to avoid spreading unverified information that may jeopardise ongoing operations. They encouraged families to remain hopeful and trust the armed forces.
Civil society groups, including education advocates and rights organisations, have also called for stronger protection of schools, describing the repeated abduction of children as a national emergency that demands sustained political will.
Nigerians demand lasting security solutions
Across social media, Nigerians voiced outrage over yet another school abduction. Many demanded a long-term strategy to secure learning environments, arguing that rescue efforts must be complemented by stronger preventive measures.
While the nation waits anxiously, the Army Chief’s visit and strong orders have offered a measure of reassurance. For parents in Kebbi, however, the only true relief will come when their daughters return home safely.
The military says it is determined to make that happen — and soon.
