Tinubu Sends Defence Minister Bello Matawalle to Kebbi to Rescue 25 Abducted Schoolgirls

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to immediately relocate to Kebbi State to coordinate efforts to secure the release of 25 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga town.

The directive, communicated through the President’s Special Adviser, Bayo Onanuga, instructs Matawalle former Governor of Zamfara State to remain in Kebbi to supervise ongoing security operations.

His previous experience in handling mass kidnappings, including the 2021 abduction of 279 female students in Jangebe, is expected to bolster efforts to rescue the girls safely.

The abduction occurred around 4 a.m. on Monday, when gunmen stormed the school and seized the students.

In light of this and a recent attack on church worshippers in Kwara State, President Tinubu has postponed his planned international trips to Johannesburg and Luanda.

Matawalle is expected to arrive in Birnin-Kebbi on Friday to lead the coordination of security agencies on the ground, ensuring the safe return of the abducted students.

Authorities continue to work tirelessly amid growing concerns over the security of schools in Northern Nigeria.