Good news has finally emerged from Kebbi State as all 24 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, have now regained their freedom after days of tension and nationwide concern.
The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the successful rescue in an official statement released on Tuesday, bringing relief to many Nigerians who had been anxiously following the situation.
According to the statement, President Tinubu expressed deep relief and emphasized that the government must now intensify efforts to safeguard vulnerable communities. “I am relieved that all the 24 girls have been accounted for. Now, we must urgently deploy more boots on the ground in vulnerable areas to prevent further kidnappings. My government will provide all necessary support to achieve this,” the President was quoted as saying.
He praised the security agencies for their swift and coordinated action, acknowledging their role in securing the release of the girls. The President also urged them to continue aggressive operations aimed at rescuing any other abducted students still in captivity across the country.
The incident, which occurred last week, involved armed bandits invading the school hostel on Monday night and abducting 25 female students, while one managed to escape. The shocking attack sparked widespread outrage and renewed conversations on the urgent need for improved security in Nigerian schools.
In response to the kidnapping, President Tinubu immediately ordered the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to relocate to Kebbi State to oversee and coordinate the rescue mission personally. While commending the success of the operation, the President reminded the nation that the larger battle against banditry is still ongoing and requires sustained action.
The attack has once again highlighted long-standing concerns about insecurity in rural communities, particularly in the North-West, where banditry continues to threaten lives, education, and development. Many Nigerians are calling for stronger, long-term strategies to ensure that schools remain safe and accessible to all children.