The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify efforts toward securing the release of students abducted in Kebbi State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that suspected bandits kidnapped 25 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS), Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area on Monday. The attackers also killed the school’s vice principal.
In a statement on Tuesday, Capt. David Adewusi, Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YANMA, said the COAS issued the directive during an operational tour of the state on Monday.
Addressing frontline commanders and troops, Shaibu ordered sustained, intelligence-led operations and a relentless, round-the-clock pursuit of the abductors.
“We must find these children. Act decisively and professionally on all intelligence. Success is not optional,” he said.
Shaibu also met with local vigilance groups and hunters, whom he described as critical partners in the ongoing operation. He urged them to support troops with their deep knowledge of the terrain to locate and neutralise criminal elements.
“Together, we will restore peace and ensure children can attend school safely,” he said.
The COAS also paid condolence visits to the Traditional Ruler of Danko, Alhaji Abubakar Allaje, and the Principal of GGCSS Maga, Hajiya Rabi Magaji, assuring them of the military’s unwavering commitment to rescuing the abducted students unharmed.
He further charged troops to remain disciplined, professional, and guided by the rules of engagement, while maintaining resilience and responsiveness in efforts to restore peace to Kebbi State and surrounding communities.
