By Our Reporter
President Bola Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi State on Wednesday to commiserate with the state government and reassure the families of recently abducted schoolgirls that the Federal Government is committed to securing their swift release.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President also extended heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian military over the death of several soldiers, including Brigadier General Musa Uba, who were killed in action while combating insurgents in Borno State.
According to the statement, President Tinubu has been fully briefed on both the abduction of the schoolgirls from a boarding school in Maga, Kebbi State, and the tragic loss of military personnel.
He expressed deep sadness over the events, noting that the kidnapping occurred despite prior intelligence hinting at a possible attack.
He, however, commended Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for the state government’s preventive efforts.
While condemning the security breach that led to the abduction, the President urged communities, especially those in security-vulnerable areas, to actively share intelligence with security agencies, emphasising that such cooperation is essential for effective protection.
“As 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,” the President said.
President Tinubu reiterated that without the support of Nigerians and local communities, the military, police and DSS cannot fully succeed in their operations.
He called on traditional rulers, community leaders and residents in conflict-prone zones to provide timely and actionable information to aid national security efforts.
Vice President Shettima is expected to meet with state authorities, affected families and security operatives during his visit, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted schoolchildren.
