The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Tuesday visited Maga community in Kebbi State, issuing a firm directive to troops of Operation Fasan Yamma to go “all out” against the bandits who abducted students of Government Girls Secondary School, Maga.
Addressing troops during an assessment visit, Shaibu warned that bandits had adopted a pattern of attacking soft targets. He stressed the need for the military to counter such tactics with superior strategy, improved intelligence, and continuous operations.
“You must continue day and night fighting. We must find these children,” he ordered.
He urged commanders to rely heavily on actionable intelligence and execute missions professionally and decisively, emphasizing that the priority was not reputation but effective duty performance. Troops were instructed to sustain 24-hour operations until all abducted students are safely rescued.
The Army Chief also met with local vigilantes and hunters supporting security forces in the area. He highlighted their vital role in providing local intelligence due to their deep knowledge of the terrain.
“If we have people like you, you are the ones who will work with us and provide local intelligence. You know these forests; you know where the criminals hide,” he said. “Your hunters should move through every part of these forests. Soldiers will join you. We are counting on you to help us bring lasting peace.”
Shaibu condemned the bandits’ attempt to create fear and disrupt education, vowing that the military would not allow such intimidation to succeed.
Earlier in the day, he visited the traditional ruler of Danko, Abubakar Allaje, and the principal of the school, Rabi Magaji, to offer condolences and support.
Reaffirming the military’s commitment, he stated: “We are fully committed. We will not relent. The safety of these children is a national priority, and we are deploying every resource to ensure they return home safely.”
Post comments (0)