President Bola Tinubu has dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to Kebbi State to meet with the families of the schoolgirls abducted from a boarding school in Maga, assuring Nigerians that the government is working tirelessly to ensure the victims’ safe and swift return.

Tinubu’s assurance came as he revealed that the abduction took place despite prior intelligence warnings of a possible bandit attack.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President also extended condolences to the military over the deaths of several soldiers, including Brigadier General Musa Uba, who were killed in action during operations against insurgents in Borno State.

The President said he had been fully briefed by military authorities on both incidents, expressing deep sorrow over the attack on the school and the loss of military personnel.

He noted that the abduction occurred “despite intelligence warnings of a possible strike by the bandits,” and commended Kebbi State Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris “for the efforts made to avert the kidnapping.”

Describing the abduction as a painful setback, Tinubu urged communities, especially those in security-vulnerable areas, to intensify collaboration with security operatives.

“As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am depressed with the tragic death of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes,” he said.

Tinubu added that he was equally troubled by the disruption of the education of innocent schoolgirls, declaring: “I have directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi State.”

He emphasized that citizen cooperation remains a critical tool in weakening criminal networks and preventing further attacks.

“Our security forces cannot succeed in protecting us if the people don’t cooperate and share information that will help them keep our communities safe.

I urge community leaders and our compatriots across the country, especially those in the theatres of operations, to share useful information. Your cooperation is crucial in our fight against these security challenges,” he stated.

According to the Presidency, Vice President Shettima is expected in Kebbi on Wednesday to meet with state officials, reassure affected parents, and convey the President’s message of solidarity and commitment.