Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has confirmed the safe release of 24 schoolgirls abducted from Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area.
The governor stated emphatically that neither the state nor the federal government paid any ransom for the girls’ release, attributing the operation entirely to the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies.
“No ransom was paid. The Kebbi State Government did not pay a kobo, and neither did the Federal Government. The rescue was achieved solely through the efforts of the security agencies,” Idris said, adding that the girls would be reunited with their parents on Wednesday.
Governor Idris also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his concern and directives to ensure the rescue of the abducted students. He highlighted that the President had instructed security agencies to intensify operations to secure all victims taken by terrorists.
The release of the girls was initially announced by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, who praised the security agencies’ swift action in securing their freedom.
President Tinubu, speaking on the operation, reiterated the need for heightened security in vulnerable areas and promised government support to prevent future incidents. “I am relieved that all the 24 girls have been accounted for. Now, we must urgently increase security presence in high-risk areas. My government will offer all the assistance needed to achieve this,” he said.
Authorities continue to pursue remaining abductees across the northern region, as security forces are tasked with intensifying rescue efforts to curb the rising wave of school kidnappings.
