Tinubu sends Shettima to Kebbi over kidnapped schoolgirls, mourns fallen soldiers
President Bola Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi State on Wednesday to convey the Federal Government’s sympathy to the state and reassure parents and guardians of the abducted schoolgirls that efforts are underway to secure their safe and swift release.
The President also extended his condolences to the Nigerian military following the death of soldiers, including Brigadier General Musa Uba, who were killed while combating insurgents in Borno State.
In a statement issued by Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday, President Tinubu expressed sadness over the two incidents, emphasizing that he had been fully briefed by military authorities. He noted that despite intelligence reports suggesting a possible attack, bandits still succeeded in abducting the female students from their boarding school in Maga, Kebbi State.
Tinubu commended Kebbi State Governor, Mohammed Nasir Idris, for the efforts made to prevent the incident, but expressed concern about the breach that enabled the abduction.
He urged citizens—especially those living in communities affected by insecurity—to work closely with security agencies by providing timely information that can help avert such attacks.
“Our security forces cannot succeed in protecting us if the people don’t cooperate and share information that will help them keep our communities safe,” the President said.
He stressed that national security is a collective effort, adding that communities must actively support the military, police, and Department of State Services (DSS) in intelligence gathering.
“As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am depressed with the tragic death of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes.
“I am also depressed that heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi State,” Tinubu added.
The Vice President’s visit is expected to reassure the affected families and reinforce the Federal Government’s commitment to ending banditry and securing the release of all abducted citizens.
