Security Forces Intensify Search for Abducted Kebbi Schoolgirls

Security agencies have launched an intensive operation to rescue 25 schoolgirls abducted from the Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State.

The attack occurred on the early hours of 17 November 2025, leaving one staff member, Vice Principal Malam Hassan Yakubu Makuku, dead According to reports, gunmen attacked the school around 4 a.m., exchanged fire with police, and scaled the school perimeter fence to abduct the students. Since the incident, two of the kidnapped girls have reportedly managed to escape and return safely The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has been redeployed to Kebbi to personally oversee the rescue operations. His presence aims to strengthen coordination between the military, police, and local vigilante groups involved in the search. Matawalle, a former governor of Zamfara State, brings experience from handling similar security challenges in northern Nigeria. While some reports claim that security operatives have located the camp where the girls are being held, major news outlets and official government sources have not confirmed this. Authorities continue to rely on intelligence-driven operations, combing forests and key roads near the school to secure the students’ safe return. President Bola Tinubu has urged calm, stressing that all efforts are being made to rescue the girls without endangering lives. Meanwhile, local communities have been asked to cooperate with security personnel while remaining vigilant. The incident has reignited concerns over school security in northern Nigeria, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by armed groups targeting educational institutions. Authorities continue to reassure the public that every possible measure is being taken to ensure the swift and safe release of the abducted girls.