Twenty-four students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga, who were abducted by bandits and later rescued, have been formally handed over to Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris.
The handover took place on Tuesday night in Birnin Kebbi and was carried out by the Theatre Commander, Major General Idris Warrah, on the directive of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.
Warrah explained that immediately after the abduction, troops were deployed and launched an aggressive pursuit of the bandits. He said intelligence led to the discovery that the girls were being held in Bagega Forest, prompting soldiers to cordon off the area and block all entry and exit routes.
“On the 19th of this month, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu instructed the Minister of State for Defence, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, to relocate to Kebbi to ensure the safe return of all abducted schoolgirls. I am pleased to present the 24 rescued victims today. They are all here—safe, unharmed, with no deaths or injuries,” he said.
The Theatre Commander recommended that the girls undergo comprehensive medical examinations to confirm their wellbeing.
He also conveyed the appreciation of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for the support received from the Kebbi State Government, the Defence Ministry, and other security agencies involved in the operation.
Receiving the students, Governor Idris expressed gratitude to God and thanked President Tinubu for deploying full government resources to ensure their rescue. He praised the military, security agencies, and Matawalle for their commitment and coordination during the mission.
The governor assured that all rescued students would undergo thorough medical checks before being reunited with their families. He also extended appreciation to Nigerians for their prayers, solidarity, and support—particularly religious leaders and dignitaries who reached out during the ordeal.
