Twenty-four students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga — a public school in Kebbi State located in northwestern Nigeria — were formally received by the First Lady of Kebbi State, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Idris, on Wednesday after their rescue from last week’s abduction. Okay News reports.
The official presentation took place in Birnin Kebbi, the capital city of Kebbi State in Nigeria’s northern region, where the Commissioner for Education, Halima Bande, led the handover process. Bande confirmed that all the rescued students were medically stable and had not been physically harmed during their captivity.
She explained the state government’s coordinated efforts, noting Governor Nasir Idris — the elected Chief Executive of Kebbi State — played a central role in the rescue.
“Since the abduction, the governor has been restless. He lost sleep and stayed back to coordinate every move. We cannot thank him enough for his doggedness,” she said.
Representing the parents, Malam Illiyasu Garba expressed overwhelming gratitude to security operatives, religious leaders, community volunteers, and the state government.
“We were confident that with Governor Idris involved, our children would return safely. Today, we thank Allah that they are back,” he said.
The District Head of Maga, Muhammad Sani Dantani — a traditional leader in the affected community — also praised the governor’s commitment and quick intervention. He said the governor treated the issue as a personal responsibility, which contributed to the safe release of the girls.
In her remarks, Kebbi State First Lady Hajiya Idris acknowledged the emotional weight the incident placed on families and residents across the state.
“Kebbi is fortunate that the rescue was achieved within one week. No parent should lose faith in education because of this. Stronger safety measures will be put in place to prevent a recurrence,” she assured.
She also extended appreciation to the Nigerian military and all stakeholders who participated in the successful rescue, describing the girls’ return as “a blessing and relief for the entire state.”
