The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed concern over the recent mass abduction of students in Kebbi and Niger states, confirming that a review of troop deployment procedures is underway, particularly concerning a serious allegation made by the Governor of Kebbi State.
The DHQ, in a statement on Sunday by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, addressed the abduction of 25 students from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu LGA of Kebbi State, and the kidnapping of a reported 303 students and staff from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara LGA of Niger State.
Onoja condemned the attacks, assuring the public that the military is actively engaged in rescue operations.
“The Defence Headquarters is deeply concerned about the unfortunate abduction of the 25 schoolgirls of Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga (Danko-Wasagu LGA) of Kebbi State, and St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri (Agwara LGA) of Niger State,” Onoja said.
“We condemn this heinous act in the strongest terms. Our thoughts remain with the students, their families, and the communities affected. The Armed Forces of Nigeria are fully engaged in ongoing operations to ensure the safe rescue of the girls and the apprehension of the perpetrators.”
Maj. Gen. Onoja specifically addressed the claim made by the Kebbi State governor that the Maga school attack occurred shortly after troops were withdrawn from the vicinity. He confirmed the DHQ is taking the allegation seriously and has initiated a thorough review.
“Regarding the allegation made by the Executive Governor of Kebbi State—that the terrorists struck 30 minutes after troops were withdrawn from the school—the Defence Headquarters is aware of this claim,” Onoja stated.
He further explained the ongoing process: “In line with our standard procedure, a thorough review is currently underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding troop deployment and movements in the area at the time of the incident.”
While noting that operational decisions are typically driven by intelligence, the DHQ vowed swift corrective measures if necessary. “It is important to note that all operational decisions are based on intelligence assessments and the broader security architecture of the region. Nevertheless, if the ongoing review identifies any lapse or gap, the Armed Forces will take immediate corrective action to prevent a recurrence,” he assured the public.
Onoja concluded by prioritizing the rescue efforts and affirming the military’s commitment to restoring peace.
“The Defence Headquarters remains committed to working closely with state authorities, community leaders, and other security agencies to strengthen protection around schools and vulnerable communities. We assure Nigerians that the rescue effort is a top priority, and our troops are actively on the ground pursuing all actionable intelligence to ensure the safe return of the abducted students,” he said.
“The Defence Headquarters acknowledges the concerns of Nigerians regarding the recent increase in insecurity in parts of the North. We wish to assure the public that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to restoring peace and stability across all affected communities.”