COAS Orders Offensive to Rescue Abducted Kebbi Schoolgirls

By Zainab Uzomah.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Monday ordered troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify the ongoing search-and-rescue efforts for the schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS), Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Gen. Shaibu, who was on an operational tour of the state, warned that the mission must be prosecuted with precision, urgency, and sustained pressure on the abductors.

According to a statement signed by Captain David Adewusi, Media Information Officer for Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the Army Chief charged frontline commanders to pursue intelligence-led operations and maintain an unbroken day-and-night tempo until the girls are safely rescued.

Gen. Shaibu was quoted as telling the troops that “success is not optional,” urging them to act decisively, professionally, and in full compliance with the rules of engagement.

During the visit, the COAS also met with vigilante groups and local hunters, describing them as indispensable partners in the rescue effort. He encouraged them to deploy their deep knowledge of the terrain to reinforce military operations aimed at dismantling criminal elements and restoring normalcy. He affirmed that joint efforts would help ensure schools remain safe for children across the state.

Before departing, Gen. Shaibu paid condolence visits to the Traditional Ruler of Danko, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Allaje, and the Principal of GGCSS Maga, Hajiya Rabi Musa Magaji, reassuring them of the Army’s unwavering resolve to bring the abducted students home unharmed and to restore enduring peace across Kebbi State and adjoining communities.