Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Maj. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify the search-and-rescue operation for 25 students abducted by bandits in Kebbi State.
The order followed Monday’s attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, where bandits killed Vice Principal Hassan Yakubu Makuku before fleeing with the girls.
Army Chief Visits Attack Site and Holds Strategy Meeting
Shaibu, accompanied by top military officers from Army Headquarters, arrived in Kebbi on Monday to assess the situation firsthand. During an operational meeting with frontline commanders, he charged troops to maintain “round-the-clock operations” until all abducted students are rescued.
“We Must Find These Children,” Says Shaibu
Addressing soldiers, the army chief underscored the need for intelligence-driven missions. “You must continue day and night fighting. We must find these children,” he said, urging commanders to act decisively once intelligence is received. He warned that bandits now target soft spots and must be met with superior tactics.
Collaboration with Local Vigilantes and Hunters
Shaibu met separately with vigilantes and hunters assisting security forces, emphasizing collaboration as key to success. “If we have people like you, it is you who will work with us and provide local intelligence,” he said, calling on hunters to “storm the nooks and crannies of these forests.”
Reaffirming Commitment to Rescue Mission
He assured community members that the military is deploying every resource to ensure the students’ safe return. “We are fully committed. We will not relent. The safety of these children is a national priority,” Shaibu told the traditional ruler of Danko, Abubakar Allaje, and school principal, Rabi Magaji, during condolence visits.
