Summary
Twenty-four students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga, who were kidnapped by bandits and later freed, have been officially handed over to Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris.
The handover took place on Tuesday night in Birnin Kebbi and was conducted by the Theatre Commander, Major General Idris Warrah, following the directive of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.
During the presentation, Warrah recounted that troops were immediately deployed after the abduction, moving with speed to track the bandits and secure the release of the schoolgirls.
He explained that intelligence pointed to Bagega Forest as the location where the children were being held, prompting soldiers to seal off the entire area by blocking all approaches and escape routes.
“On the 19th of this month, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the Minister of State for Defence, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, to relocate to Kebbi to ensure the full return of all abducted schoolgirls. I am happy to present the 24 recovered victims today. They are all here, hale and hearty, no deaths, no injuries,” he said.
The Theatre Commander advised that the girls undergo a thorough medical assessment to confirm their physical and emotional well-being.
He also passed on the gratitude of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Major General Waidi Shaibu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, acknowledging the strong cooperation from the Kebbi State Government, Matawalle, and all supporting security agencies who contributed to the rescue mission.
Upon receiving the children, Governor Idris expressed profound gratitude to God and praised President Tinubu for deploying the full weight of federal support to ensure the success of the rescue operation.
He applauded the Armed Forces, other security units, and Matawalle for their commitment, synergy, and resilience throughout the rescue efforts.
Governor Idris reaffirmed that each of the girls would undergo comprehensive medical evaluations before being reunited with their families.
He also thanked Nigerians for their prayers, compassion, and solidarity, noting the comforting messages and visits from religious leaders, community figures, and well-wishers during the tense period.
What you should know
The 24 GGCSS Maga students who were abducted by bandits have been safely rescued and formally handed over to Kebbi State authorities.
The military traced the captors to Bagega Forest, blocked off the area, and secured their release without casualties.
Governor Idris and federal officials have confirmed that full medical assessments will be carried out before the students are reunited with their families.
