The 24 schoolgirls kidnapped from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State have regained their freedom. The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed their release in a statement issued on Tuesday.

According to Onanuga, the students were rescued through a coordinated effort by security agencies who launched an intensive search operation shortly after the girls were abducted. He added that President Tinubu commended the security operatives for their professionalism and urged them to sustain the momentum in the fight against banditry.

The students have since been handed over to Kebbi State authorities for medical screening and psychological support. Their families, who had endured days of anxiety, expressed relief and gratitude following the news of the rescue.

The abduction occurred in the early hours of Friday, when armed bandits stormed the school premises and forcefully whisked away the students. Residents reported that the attackers arrived on motorcycles, shooting sporadically and overpowering the limited security presence at the school.

The incident sparked nationwide concern, as it revived memories of previous large-scale school kidnappings in northern Nigeria. Advocacy groups, civil society organisations, and parents’ associations had immediately called on the government to act swiftly to prevent another prolonged hostage situation.

Following the kidnapping, security agencies intensified surveillance across border communities in Kebbi, Zamfara, and Niger States, where the abductors were believed to have retreated. Local vigilantes and community leaders also played crucial roles by providing intelligence that helped narrow down the search areas.