The 24 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State have regained their freedom.
The release of the kidnapped girls, as well as other victims, was reportedly facilitated through coordinated efforts by officials from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Their release comes amid heightened national concern over rising school-related abductions across parts of the North-West and North-Central regions.
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President Bola Tinubu, in a statement released on Tuesday evening, confirmed the release of the abducted Kebbi girls and expressed profound relief over the development, noting that “all 24 victims have now been accounted for.”
He applauded the efforts of the security operatives involved in the rescue mission and reaffirmed “his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding schools and vulnerable communities.
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris disclosed that the students were already being transported to Birnin Kebbi, where they are expected to reunite with their parents on Wednesday.
Governor Idris expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his sustained concern and support since the incident and commended the coordinated efforts of the police, DSS, military, civil defence, and other security operatives.
“They did not take the President’s order lightly,” he noted.
“They have been following developments professionally from the beginning.”
The governor also acknowledged religious leaders for their prayers throughout the ordeal.
Importantly, he clarified that no ransom was paid for the students’ release.
“I want to make it clear that no compensation was paid as a condition for their release,” he said.
“The Kebbi State Government did not give out one kobo, and security agencies have confirmed they did not release any money.”
Governor Idris described the day as one of immense relief for families and citizens of the state.
“Today is a day of happiness for all of us. We thank the Almighty God for answering our prayers and bringing the girls home safely,” he added.
The rescue brings an end to a traumatic episode that has drawn widespread national attention to persistent security challenges in the North-West region.