President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi State on Wednesday to meet with state officials and assure parents and guardians of the kidnapped schoolgirls that the government is working to ensure their safe and speedy release.

In a separate message, the President extended his condolences to the military over the death of gallant soldiers, including Brigadier General Musa Uba, who lost his life while on active duty combating insurgents in Borno State.

President Tinubu, fully briefed by military authorities on both incidents, expressed deep sadness over the abduction of the schoolgirls despite intelligence warnings of a possible attack by bandits. He commended Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for his efforts to prevent the kidnapping.

While condemning the security breach that led to the abduction of the students from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, President Tinubu urged communities, particularly in areas facing security challenges, to provide information and intelligence to assist the military, police, and DSS in safeguarding local communities.

The President emphasized that the security forces cannot operate effectively without the support of Nigerians. “As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am deeply grieved by the tragic deaths of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes,” he said.

He added, “I am also distressed that terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed our security agencies to act swiftly to bring them back to Kebbi State. Your cooperation is crucial in our fight against these security challenges.”