_By Adesakin Adefemi
November 26, 2025_
President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the release of 24 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls’ Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State, on November 17, 2025. In a statement, Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga expressed the President’s “immense relief” and commended security agencies for their efforts.
The attack, which occurred hours after a military withdrawal, sparked national outrage and highlighted the escalating banditry crisis in Nigeria’s North-West, disrupting education and instilling fear in communities.
The incident triggered similar kidnappings: 38 hostages freed in Kwara’s Eruku on Sunday and 50 students from Niger’s Papiri located safely, according to the Christian Association of Nigeria Tinubu urged urgent action, stating: “I’m relieved all 24 are safe. Deploy more resources, tech, and intelligence to vulnerable zones we must prevent repeats. My government fully supports this fight.”
Inspector-General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun visited Niger State, calling for _“united action against insecurity” as rural kidnappings surge.
Police have withdrawn officers from VIP duties to prioritize citizen safety, per Tinubu’s directive. “We’re hunting them,” Egbetokun vowed, deploying tactical units to affected areas.
The abduction has intensified demands for safer schools, with critics decrying systemic neglect: “This isn’t just Kebbi—it’s Nigeria’s children. Enough!”_Education Minister Tunji Alausa launched online classes for secondary students, a temporary measure as parents demand armed guards and trauma support.
Families await reunions amid sparse psychosocial aid. Egbetokun warned, “No hiding place for kidnappers.” Local leaders urge calm, while activists cite “years of neglect” Governors meet Thursday to sync security plans. No ransom details disclosed; investigations continue.
