The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify their search-and-rescue mission for students abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
In a statement issued Tuesday by the Media Information Officer of the operation, Captain David Adewusi, the directive followed the COAS’ operational tour of the affected communities on Monday. Addressing frontline commanders and soldiers, Gen. Shaibu mandated an intelligence-led, round-the-clock pursuit of the perpetrators.
“We must find these children. Act decisively and professionally on all intelligence. Success is not optional,” the Army Chief charged.
Gen. Shaibu also met with local vigilantes and hunters who have been supporting the mission. He described them as indispensable partners due to their deep knowledge of the terrain and urged closer collaboration to ensure the safe return of the students. “Together, we will restore peace and ensure children can attend school safely,” he said.
During the visit, the COAS paid a condolence and solidarity visit to the Traditional Ruler of Danko, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Allaje, and the Principal of GGCSS Maga, Hajiya Rabi Musa Magaji. He assured them of the Army’s unwavering commitment to rescuing the schoolgirls unharmed and restoring normalcy to the community.
Gen. Shaibu further encouraged troops to remain professional, disciplined, and guided by the rules of engagement as they sustain pressure on the criminal networks behind the abduction. He reaffirmed that the military will not relent until the students are safely reunited with their families.
The abduction, which has triggered nationwide outrage and renewed calls for improved security around schools, marks yet another reminder of the persistent threat posed by bandit groups operating across parts of the North-West. The Army’s intensified efforts signal a renewed push to curb insecurity and reassure citizens of the government’s commitment to protecting lives and ensuring safe learning environments.