President Bola Tinubu has commended security agencies for the rescue of 24 abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State and directed stronger security presence in vulnerable communities to prevent further kidnappings
“We Must Put More Boots On The Ground” – Tinubu Hails Rescue of Abducted 24 Kebbi Schoolgirls
… Orders Stronger Security Deployment
President Bola Tinubu has expressed relief and gratitude following the successful rescue of the 24 schoolgirls abducted by terrorists in Maga, Kebbi State, last Monday. He described their release as a testament to resilience, swift action, and coordinated efforts among Nigeria’s security agencies.
The attackers had stormed the school at dawn on November 17, striking just moments after a military detachment left the area. The incident triggered a disturbing wave of copycat abductions in Eruku, Kwara State, and Papiri, Niger State, intensifying national anxiety over the growing vulnerability of students across rural communities.
On Sunday, all 38 victims kidnapped in the Eruku attack regained their freedom. That same day, the Niger State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria announced that 50 of the missing students from the Catholic School in Papiri had been found in their parents’ homes—bringing significant relief after earlier fears of a major mass abduction.
Reacting to the latest rescue, President Tinubu applauded the coordinated security operation that led to the recovery of the kidnapped Kebbi schoolgirls. He urged security agencies to ramp up efforts to free those still held captive and to strengthen operations in high-risk areas.
“I am relieved that all the 24 girls have been accounted for. Now, we must put as a matter of urgency more boots on the ground in the vulnerable areas to avert further incidents of kidnapping. My government will offer all the assistance needed to achieve this,” the President said.
The statement was issued on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
