Kebbi State Governor, Nasiru Idris, has announced the release of the 24 schoolgirls kidnapped nine days ago from Maga, a community in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area. The governor addressed journalists on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi alongside the Director of the Department of State Services in the state.
Idris confirmed that the children were rescued through a coordinated operation led by federal and state security agencies.
He said the rescue was carried out without paying ransom. According to him, “No Kobo was paid. Our security operatives were proactive and we are grateful for their bravery and commitment.”
The governor explained that Tinubu directed the Minister of State for Defence and the Chief of Army Staff to relocate to Kebbi immediately after the abduction. He said this order strengthened the rescue efforts and helped fast-track the operation.
“We are very happy today that our prayers have been answered. The trauma we all went through, both government and the families, cannot be described,” he said.
He added that the rescued girls are being transported to Birnin Kebbi for medical checks and will reunite with their families on Wednesday morning.
Idris also expressed appreciation to community leaders and urged them to support ongoing security measures across the state. “Today we are most grateful to Almighty Allah,” he said.
The abduction, which happened last week, had triggered tension across the state, with residents calling for stronger protection for rural schools.
The government assured that new security steps will be introduced to prevent such incidents.
