President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, particularly condemning the recent abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the tragic death of Brigadier General Musa Uba alongside other military personnel.
Presidential Reaction to Security Crises
President Tinubu described himself as depressed by the heartless disruption of education caused by terrorists who kidnapped innocent schoolgirls from Kebbi State. Through his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, the President issued a statement on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, calling for immediate action.
The presidential communication, shared via Sunday Dare's Twitter handle @SundayDareSD, emphasized Tinubu's directive to security agencies to act swiftly and ensure the safe return of the abducted students to Kebbi State. The President also offered prayers for the families of General Uba and other fallen heroes, asking God to comfort them during this difficult period.
Citizen Cooperation in Security Matters
Tinubu stressed the importance of community involvement in combating security challenges. Our security forces cannot succeed in protecting us if the people don't cooperate and share information that will help them keep our communities safe, the President stated.
He specifically urged community leaders and residents in conflict areas to provide useful intelligence to security operatives. Your cooperation is crucial in our fight against these security challenges, Tinubu emphasized, highlighting the need for teamwork between civilians and security forces.
Background of the Security Incidents
The presidential statement comes in response to two major security incidents that occurred earlier in the week. On Monday, November 17, 2025, bandits kidnapped 25 female students shortly after they left staff quarters in Kebbi State.
In a separate but related development, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) claimed responsibility for capturing and killing Brigade Commander Brigadier General Musa Uba. The terrorist group detailed their actions in their propaganda newsletter, describing how they kidnapped, interrogated, and ultimately killed the Army general.
Reacting to the school abduction, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff, had already ordered troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA in northwest Nigeria to rescue the kidnapped schoolgirls.
Nigerians React to Presidential Statement
The presidential statement sparked mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media platforms. Some citizens expressed frustration with the government's approach to security challenges.
@realkaybee_ commented: We can't move from a shock-expressing president to a depressed president. Depression isn't a strategy against terrorism. Mr President should prioritise the safety of the citizens.
@suleatte added: This statement should have been delivered through an overwhelming show of force against these criminals. It also doesn't help that the commander in chief seems to be trying to shift responsibility for this loss to the citizens.
However, some users supported the call for community cooperation. @RashwalRashwal noted: Only team work can make the dream of defeating terrorism work. Governors and Community heads must work together to share meaningful information to support our military.
Other commentators criticized the communication strategy, with @olufunsoaluko stating: Nigerians want to see their President come on TV and vent, show his anger, give orders and look depressed as the statement reads. Not everytime press release. Body language is key.
The security situation continues to generate concern across Nigeria, with recent attacks also reported in Kwara State, highlighting the spreading nature of security challenges facing the nation.
