President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the recent kidnapping of schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the killing of soldiers in Borno, describing both incidents as “distressing and unacceptable.”
In response, the President has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi on Wednesday to convey the federal government’s sympathies to the state authorities and reassure the families of the abducted students that every effort is being made to secure their safe return.
A statement from presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga also confirmed that President Tinubu extended condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces over the loss of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other personnel who died while on active duty fighting insurgents.
The President, fully briefed by military authorities on both events, noted that the abduction occurred despite prior intelligence warnings of a possible attack. He commended Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for actions taken to prevent the kidnapping but criticized the security lapses that allowed the incident at the boarding school in Maga, Kebbi State.
President Tinubu emphasized the crucial role of community cooperation in national security. He urged residents, particularly those in vulnerable areas, to share timely and actionable intelligence with the military, police, and DSS to help protect communities.
“As Commander-in-Chief, I am deeply saddened by the deaths of our soldiers and officers on duty. May God console the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes. I am also pained that terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed security agencies to act promptly and ensure the girls are safely returned to Kebbi State,” the President said.
He added that the success of security operations depends heavily on citizen participation, urging community leaders and residents in high-risk regions to provide information that can aid in tackling insecurity across the nation.