Twenty-four students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, who were abducted last week, have been safely returned and formally handed over to the First Lady of Kebbi State, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Idris.
The handover ceremony, held in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday, was officiated by the Commissioner for Education, Halima Bande, who confirmed that all the rescued students were in good health.
“The girls were unharmed during their captivity,” Bande said. “Governor Nasir Idris remained fully involved in every stage of the rescue effort, working tirelessly to secure their release.”
She added, “Since the abduction, the governor has been restless, losing sleep and staying back to coordinate every move. We cannot thank him enough for his doggedness.”
Representing the parents, Malam Illiyasu Garba expressed gratitude to the governor, security agencies, religious leaders, and community volunteers.
“We were confident that with Governor Idris involved, our children would return safely. Today, we thank Allah that they are back,” he said.
The District Head of Maga, Muhammad Sani Dantani, also praised the governor’s quick action, describing the rescue as a demonstration of the state government’s personal commitment to the security of its citizens.
Receiving the girls on behalf of the state government, the First Lady, Hajiya Idris, noted the anxiety the abduction caused across Kebbi.
She assured that “stronger safety measures will be put in place to prevent a recurrence” and urged parents not to lose faith in education.
“Kebbi is fortunate that the rescue was achieved within one week. The return of these girls is a blessing and relief for the entire state,” she said.
The military and all other stakeholders involved in the rescue operation were also commended for their roles in ensuring the students’ safe return.
