The Chief of Army Staff, Maj. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify search-and-rescue efforts for the students abducted in Kebbi State.
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PUNCH Online had reported that bandits attacked the Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, on Monday, killing the Vice Principal, Hassan Yakubu Makuku, and abducting 25 students.
According to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the army chief arrived in Kebbi on Monday with a team of principal staff officers from Army Headquarters.
During the visit, Maj. Gen. Shaibu held an operational meeting with frontline commanders and charged soldiers to sustain round-the-clock operations until all the abducted schoolgirls are found and safely returned.
Shaibu reminded the troops that unwavering determination and professionalism were crucial to the mission’s success.
He said, “You must continue day and night fighting. We must find these children.
“For the commanders here, you must leverage intelligence to conduct intelligence-based missions. It has become a pattern that bandits target soft targets. If they know you are in a location, they will not come there or face you in a fight — and you can defeat them, can’t you?
“You must have the commitment to ensure success. Once you receive intelligence on something of this nature, you must act professionally and decisively. This is not just about our image; it is about doing our job properly.”
The COAS also met separately with local vigilantes and hunters assisting security forces, stressing the need for stronger collaboration due to their deep knowledge of the terrain.
“If we have people like you, you will work with us and provide local intelligence. You know these forests, and you are the ones who can tell us where the criminals are.
“Your hunters should storm the nooks and crannies of these forests. Soldiers will also join you. We are counting on you to work with us to bring lasting peace.
“What these evil people are trying to do is scare children from going to school. Let every man know we will not allow that,” he said.
Shaibu commended the vigilantes for their courage and assured them of the military’s continued support.
Earlier, the COAS paid a condolence visit to the traditional ruler of Danko, Abubakar Allaje, and the principal of the attacked school, Rabi Magaji.
He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to rescuing the abducted students unharmed.
“We are fully committed. We will not relent. The safety of these children is a national priority, and we are deploying every resource to ensure they return home safely,” he said.
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