Nigeria Army Chief Launches Round-the-Clock Search for Abducted Kebbi Students

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Maj. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify efforts in a round-the-clock search-and-rescue mission for the 25 students abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.

The abduction, which occurred on Monday, also claimed the life of the school’s vice principal, Hassan Yakubu Makuku, and injured several staff members.

Maj. Gen. Shaibu arrived in Kebbi on Monday with senior officers from the Army Headquarters to oversee the operations. During an operational briefing with frontline commanders, he stressed the importance of continuous, intelligence-driven operations to locate and safely rescue the students.

“You must continue day and night fighting. We must find these children,” Shaibu told the troops. “Leverage intelligence to conduct precision missions. Bandits often target soft targets, but our presence will deter them. Act professionally and decisively — this is about doing our job properly.”

The COAS also met with local vigilantes and hunters assisting the military, highlighting the importance of their knowledge of the terrain in tracking the abductors. “Your hunters should storm every nook and cranny of the forests. Soldiers will work alongside you. Together, we can restore peace and ensure the children’s safety,” he said.

Shaibu condemned the attackers’ intent to terrorise children and prevent them from going to school. Earlier, he visited the traditional ruler of Danko, Abubakar Allaje, and the principal of the attacked school, Rabi Magaji, to offer condolences and reassurance.

“We are fully committed. We will not relent. The safety of these children is a national priority, and every available resource will be deployed to ensure they return home safely,” Shaibu affirmed.