President Bola Tinubu has expressed relief and gratitude following the safe release of 24 schoolgirls kidnapped by terrorists from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State on November 17, 2025.
The abduction occurred at dawn, shortly after a military detachment had left the school premises. The incident triggered a series of similar kidnappings in other states, including Eruku in Kwara State and Papiri in Niger State. Reports indicate that all 38 students kidnapped in Eruku were freed on Sunday, while 50 missing students from a Catholic school in Niger State were also found safe in their homes.
According to Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu’s spokesperson, the president has commended the efforts of security agents in securing the freedom of all the victims. He also directed security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue any remaining students still held captive.
“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,” President Tinubu said. “My government will offer all the assistance needed to achieve this.”
In response to the rise in kidnappings, killings, and terrorist activities, President Tinubu has ordered a full security cordon and 24-hour aerial surveillance across forests in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger states, where terrorists are believed to be hiding.
The directive, revealed in a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Sunday Dare, involves expanded Air Force operations linked with ground security booths to ensure continuous monitoring. Communities in the affected areas have been urged to report suspicious activities to aid the security forces in their operations.
“This order equally applies to the Kebbi and Niger states axis where many are expected to be rescued. Communities are also urged to provide timely information about strange movements and activities to aid the work of the security forces,” the statement added.
The government’s swift response and intensified security measures reflect its commitment to protecting students and vulnerable communities from terrorist threats and ensuring the safe return of kidnapped victims.