Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has assured parents of public school students of strengthened security measures across post-primary schools, following the recent abduction of 25 female students from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga.
Twenty-four students were later handed over to the First Lady of Kebbi State, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Idris after their release.
One of the 25 schoolgirls abducted from a school in northwestern Nigeria had earlier escaped and is safe, authorities confirmed to AP News.
Meanwhile, the governor on Friday said it had initiated wide-ranging consultations with key stakeholders to review and reinforce security protocols in schools.
The engagements involve heads of security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, renowned educationists, and experienced security consultants, aimed at preventing a recurrence of such incidents.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Kebbi State Qur’anic Recitation on Friday, the governor, represented by his deputy, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, appealed to parents to remain calm and cooperate with government as security arrangements are being overhauled.
“The safety of our children is non-negotiable. Government is working round the clock with relevant stakeholders to ensure schools are secure before reopening,” the deputy governor said.
Idris, a former teacher, expressed deep personal distress over the Maga incident, stressing that education remains central to his administration’s priorities.
He also called on affluent individuals and politicians in the state to support government efforts to raise education standards and improve learning environments.
The governor expressed optimism that the current national security architecture, under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, would help gradually overcome armed banditry, noting their longstanding cordial and results-oriented working relationship.
The state government said schools would reopen as soon as security measures are concluded and certified adequate.
At the event, traditional institutions were represented by the Galadiman Gwandu, Alhaji Ibrahim Bashar (for the Emir of Gwandu); the Kunduda of Argungu, Alhaji Ibrahim Kwaido (for the Emir of Argungu); and the Sadaukin Zuru, Alhaji Abdullahi Idris Zuru (for the Emir of Zuru).
Six participants from Zuru Emirate emerged winners at the Qur’anic Recitation, receiving prizes including motorcycles, refrigerators, sewing machines, and complete sets of beds and chairs.
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