By Crystal Ugoeze
President Bola Tinubu has dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to Kebbi State to commiserate with the government and families of the schoolgirls kidnapped from a boarding school in Maga and to assure them of the Federal Government’s commitment to securing the girls’ safe return.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President also extended his condolences to the Nigerian military over the death of several soldiers, including Brigadier General Musa Uba, who were killed while combating insurgents in Borno State.
Tinubu, who received full briefings from military authorities on both incidents, said he was saddened by the abduction of the schoolgirls despite earlier intelligence warnings of an impending attack. He commended Kebbi State Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for efforts made to prevent the kidnap, even as he decried the security breach that made it possible.
The President urged communities—particularly in areas with security vulnerabilities—to actively share information with security agencies to enhance safety and prevent attacks.
“As the 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,” Tinubu said.
He also expressed deep concern over the disruption of the children’s education, directing security agencies to act swiftly to rescue the abducted girls.
“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,” he added, calling on community leaders and residents in conflict-prone areas to support ongoing operations.
Vice President Shettima is expected in Kebbi on Wednesday.