Following their kidnapping by criminal groups and subsequent liberation, the twenty-four female students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga were officially returned to the custody of Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris.
The transfer of the students was carried out by Theatre Commander, Major General Idris Warrah, late Tuesday evening in Birnin Kebbi. This action was taken under the instruction of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.
General Warrah explained that immediately following the unfortunate abduction, military forces were rapidly mobilized and initiated a thorough chase of the criminals.
He disclosed that Bagega Forest was determined to be the location where the abducted girls were being held. Consequently, the area was completely surrounded, and all access points were blocked by soldiers.
“On the 19th of this month, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu instructed the Minister of State for Defence, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, to move to Kebbi to guarantee the complete recovery of all kidnapped schoolgirls. I am pleased to present the 24 recovered girls today. They are all present, in good health, without any fatalities or injuries,” he declared.
The Theatre Commander advised a thorough medical evaluation for the girls to determine their physical condition and well-being.
He also expressed the appreciation of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Major General Waidi Shaibu, and Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for the backing and collaboration received from the Kebbi State Government, the Minister of State for Defence, and all other security organizations involved in the successful rescue effort.
Upon receiving the schoolgirls, Governor Idris conveyed his thankfulness to God and acknowledged President Tinubu for utilizing all available government resources to ensure the operation’s success.
He praised the military, security forces, and Matawalle for their collaborative efforts, commitment, and synchronization throughout the entire operation.
Governor Idris guaranteed that comprehensive medical examinations would be carried out on each of the girls before they are safely returned to their families.
He conveyed his gratitude to the people of Nigeria for their compassion, prayers, and expressions of support, especially to the religious figures and important individuals who visited or offered assistance during this trying time.
