The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed deep concern over the abduction of 25 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, and St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, condemning the attack in strong terms.
“We condemn this heinous act in the strongest terms. Our thoughts remain with the students, their families, and the community affected by this incident,” he said.
According to Onoja, the Armed Forces of Nigeria are fully engaged in ongoing operations aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted girls, as well as tracking down and apprehending the perpetrators.
Responding to the claim by the Executive Governor of Kebbi State that terrorists struck 30 minutes after troops were withdrawn from the affected school, the Defence Headquarters confirmed awareness of the allegation. Onoja noted that a thorough review has been initiated to verify the circumstances surrounding troop deployment and movements at the time of the incident.
“All operational decisions are based on intelligence assessments and the broader security architecture of the region. Nevertheless, if the ongoing review identifies any lapse or gap, the Armed Forces will take immediate corrective action to prevent a recurrence,” he stated.
The DHQ further reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with state governments, community leaders, and other security agencies to enhance security around schools and vulnerable communities.
Onoja assured Nigerians that rescuing the abducted students remains a top operational priority.
“Our troops are actively on the ground pursuing all actionable intelligence to ensure the safe return of the abducted students,” he added.
The Defence Headquarters also acknowledged public concerns about the recent rise in insecurity in parts of the northern region, reassuring citizens of its unwavering resolve to restore peace and stability across the affected areas.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to restoring normalcy and safeguarding all communities,” the statement concluded.
