Defence Minister condemns attack on Kebbi Girls’ School, orders immediate rescue of 25 abducted students

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has condemned the attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS), Maga, in the Zuru Emirate of Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, describing it as “unacceptable” and a tragic assault on innocent children.

The attack, which occurred on the night of November 17, left the school’s Vice Principal, Malam Hassan Yakubu Makuku, dead and resulted in the abduction of at least 25 students by bandits. The incident has again heightened concerns over student safety in Nigeria’s northern states, where schools remain prime targets for armed groups.

In a statement issued on Monday, Matawalle said the federal government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had directed security agencies to “swing into immediate action” to locate and secure the release of the abducted schoolgirls. He stressed that all security formations must work in concert to ensure the victims’ safe return and the arrest of those responsible.

“The government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that the state’s security apparatus swing into immediate action to ensure the abducted students are released unharmed. “Security agencies must act urgently and collaboratively to bring the perpetrators to justice”, the minister said.

Matawalle urged residents of the affected communities to remain calm while the government intensifies efforts to address the situation. He assured them that restoring security and rescuing the students remains an urgent national priority.

The minister also extended condolences to the family of the slain Vice Principal, describing his death as a “painful and unjust loss.”

“I pray to Allah to grant him mercy, a peaceful resting place, and to console his family and loved ones,” he said.

The attack has renewed calls for strengthened protection of schools across the country, especially in regions repeatedly targeted by bandits and insurgents. 

The government has yet to provide further operational details on rescue efforts, but officials say security agencies are already on the ground in the affected areas.