Tinubu Mourns Brig-Gen Uba, Deploys Shettima to Kebbi, Directs Immediate Action on Abducted Schoolgirls
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi State on Wednesday to commiserate with the state government and reassure anxious parents of the abducted schoolgirls from Maga, stressing that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring their safe and speedy return.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed profound sorrow over the death of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other gallant soldiers who were killed during an encounter with insurgents in Borno State.
The President, who has received full briefings from military authorities on both tragic incidents, condemned the abduction of the schoolgirls, noting that it occurred despite earlier intelligence warnings of an impending attack. He commended Kebbi State Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for efforts made to avert the kidnapping, describing the breach as “regrettable and painful.”
President Tinubu emphasized that the war against insecurity cannot be won by government and security agencies alone, urging Nigerians—especially communities in high-risk areas—to share timely and actionable information with the military, police, and DSS.
“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,” the President stated.
“I am also depressed that heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi State. Our security forces cannot succeed in protecting us if the people don’t cooperate and share information.”
Vice President Shettima is expected to meet government officials, security operatives, community leaders, and the families of the abducted students during his visit. He will deliver the President’s assurances of swift action and renewed security efforts aimed at stabilizing the region.
