President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow and personal distress over two tragic security incidents that unfolded in Kebbi and Borno States, describing the events as profoundly heartbreaking and a source of emotional pain for him as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The president made his feelings known on Tuesday while addressing the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the killing of several soldiers—including a senior military officer, Brigadier General Musa Uba—during an encounter with insurgents in Borno State.
To demonstrate the government’s seriousness and compassion, President Tinubu announced that Vice President Kashim Shettima will travel to Kebbi State on Wednesday. The Vice President’s visit is intended not only to commiserate with the state government but also to reassure the families of the abducted students that the federal government is mobilising all necessary resources for their safe return. Tinubu disclosed that security authorities had briefed him on both incidents and lamented that the schoolgirls were abducted despite intelligence indicating that bandits were planning an attack.
In his remarks, Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian military, especially the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and the other soldiers who lost their lives in active service. He emphasised that the deaths of these officers represent a painful and sobering reminder of the sacrifices being made daily to safeguard the nation. The president described himself as “depressed” by the events, noting that no leader takes lightly the loss of those who defend the country or the suffering of young students who fall victim to violent criminals.
The president also appealed strongly to communities across Nigeria to support the ongoing security efforts by sharing timely information that could help prevent attacks or disrupt criminal plans. According to Tinubu, security agencies alone cannot win the battle against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of violent crime without the active participation of citizens, community heads, and local intelligence structures.
Meanwhile, the Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that 25 students of Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area were abducted on Monday when armed men invaded the school. Since the attack, the Federal Government has reiterated its determination to rescue the girls through coordinated military and intelligence operations.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, also issued assurances that the government is fully committed to ensuring the girls’ safe return. Idris stated that all relevant security agencies have been instructed to locate and recover the students while ensuring that those responsible are apprehended and brought to justice. He added that improving internal security remains a key national priority, and that reforms are already underway to strengthen Nigeria’s military, policing, and intelligence frameworks, ensuring faster and more effective responses to threats.
Idris further explained that Nigeria is deepening collaboration with regional bodies such as ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Multinational Joint Task Force in order to tighten border security, dismantle terrorist networks, and enhance coordinated action against cross-border criminal groups. He urged Nigerians to remain calm, assuring them that the government is fully engaged in resolving the situation and preventing future occurrences.