The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has issued a crucial directive to military personnel following the devastating abduction of 25 female students from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State.
Army Chief's Urgent Directive to Troops
During an operational tour on Monday, November 17, 2025, General Shaibu commanded the troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA to conduct intelligence-driven operations and maintain relentless pursuit of the kidnappers. The Army Chief emphasized that success in rescuing the abducted schoolgirls is non-negotiable, stating clearly: "We must find these children. Act decisively and professionally on all intelligence. Success is not optional."
Details of the Tragic Incident
The security crisis unfolded when armed bandits attacked the staff quarters of Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga. The assailants killed Vice Principal Malam Hassan Makuku before abducting 25 students shortly after they left the staff quarters. The attack occurred on Monday, November 17, 2025, with the gunmen escaping with the students before security reinforcements could arrive.
Captain David Adewusi, the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, confirmed the details through an official statement released via the Nigerian Army's X platform. The coordinated search operations now involve multiple security agencies working together to locate the missing students.
Collaborative Security Efforts
General Shaibu identified local vigilantes and hunters as critical partners in the rescue mission, urging them to leverage their extensive knowledge of the local terrain. The Army Chief stressed the importance of collaboration between military forces and local security networks to effectively locate and neutralize the criminal elements responsible for the abduction.
"Together, we will restore peace and ensure children can attend school safely," General Shaibu assured during his address to the troops. He further emphasized the need for professionalism among the security personnel, charging them to operate within the rules of engagement while remaining disciplined and resolute in their mission.
The tragic incident has sparked nationwide concern about school security in northern Nigeria, with security teams comprising police tactical units, military personnel, and vigilantes launching coordinated search operations across suspected routes taken by the kidnappers.
