The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops under Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify the hunt for the gunmen who abducted students of Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Gen. Shaibu gave the directive on Monday during an operational tour of the affected communities, telling frontline commanders that retrieving the missing students must remain an urgent, non-negotiable priority.
According to a statement on Tuesday by Media Information Officer, Operation FANSAN YANMA, Captain David Adewusi, said the rescue of the schoolgirls would swift and fast.
“We must find these children. Act decisively and professionally on all intelligence. Success is not optional,” the Army Chief declared as he charged troops to sustain intelligence-driven operations and maintain relentless day-and-night pursuit of the kidnappers.
As part of the visit, Gen. Shaibu met with local vigilantes and hunters, describing them as “critical partners” in the rescue mission. He urged them to deploy their unmatched knowledge of the terrain in close collaboration with troops to track, isolate, and neutralize the criminal elements responsible for the abduction.
“Together, we will restore peace and ensure children can attend school safely,” he assured.
Earlier, the COAS paid a condolence visit to the Traditional Ruler of Danko, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Allaje, and the Principal of GGCSS Maga, Hajiya Rabi Musa Magaji, reaffirming the military’s unwavering commitment to rescuing the girls unharmed and returning them to their families.
Gen. Shaibu also reminded soldiers of their duty to uphold professionalism and disciplines, urging them to remain resilient, operate strictly within the rules of engagement, and stay focused on restoring peace across Kebbi State and neighbouring areas.
The visit comes amid heightened national concern following the attack on the school.
