Minister Matawalle Escorts Rescued Kebbi Schoolgirls Back to Birnin Kebbi as Security Forces Secure Area
The Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Mohammed Bello Matawalle, is currently accompanying the rescued schoolgirls back to Birnin Kebbi following a successful security operation that led to their recovery.
According to security sources, the troops under the Theatre Command of Operation Fansān Yamma conducted a coordinated round-the-clock operation, taking full control of the area where the students were being held. The girls were safely retrieved and immediately evacuated from the location.
They are now en route to Birnin Kebbi for formal handover to Governor Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu).
“We congratulate the Honourable Minister of State for Defence and Operation Fansān Yamma for their operational efficiency in safeguarding the lives and well-being of the students,” officials said.
This development comes as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu earlier confirmed the release of all 24 schoolgirls abducted in Kebbi State on November 17, praising security agencies for their coordinated action.
“I am relieved that all the 24 girls have been accounted for… We must, as a matter of urgency, put more boots on the ground in vulnerable areas to avert further incidents of kidnapping,” the President said in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The Kebbi abduction was followed by similar incidents in Eruku, Kwara State, and Papiri in Niger State, where additional abductees have since regained their freedom.
The Presidency reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace and ensuring the safety of all citizens, especially in communities affected by recent kidnapping incidents.
Minister Matawalle Escorts Rescued Kebbi Schoolgirls Back to Birnin Kebbi as Security Forces Secure Area