President Bola Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi State on Wednesday to express solidarity with the state government and reassure the families of the kidnapped schoolgirls of the government’s commitment to their swift rescue. According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the military over the loss of brave soldiers, including Brigadier General Musa Uba, who was killed while combating insurgents in Borno State. The President, now fully briefed by military officials regarding the incidents, expressed his distress over the schoolgirls’ abduction despite prior intelligence warnings of a potential bandit attack. He lauded Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for his efforts to prevent the kidnapping. While lamenting the security lapse that led to the unfortunate abduction in Maga, Kebbi State, President Tinubu urged communities, particularly those facing security threats, to share information and intelligence with the military, police, and DSS to enhance community safety. President Tinubu emphasized that security forces require public support to function effectively. “As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our soldiers in active service. May God console the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes. I am also troubled by the interruption of education for innocent schoolgirls due to this heartless act. I have instructed security agencies to act promptly to return the girls to Kebbi State. Our security forces need the cooperation of the populace to successfully protect us. I urge community leaders and citizens, especially in operational zones, to provide valuable information. Your cooperation is vital in our battle against these security challenges,” the President said.
