US Senator Slams Nigeria Over Kebbi Schoolgirl Abductions
By Wolimoh Abdulmateen
US Senator Jim Risch has criticised Nigeria for failing to keep its schools safe after armed men attacked a girls’ secondary school in Kebbi State. In a message shared on X, Risch noted that children remain easy targets for kidnapping, forced beliefs, and ransom demands.
He added that the US will continue to pressure Nigeria to improve security and protect those most at risk. “Nigeria has long failed to protect its schoolchildren… little has changed,” he wrote, stressing that accountability is essential.
His comments follow the recent assault on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga, where gunmen killed the vice principal and took 25 students away. The incident has caused widespread anger both within and outside Nigeria.
Another American lawmaker, Riley Moore, also reacted to the tragedy. In his post, he asked the public to pray for the victims and urged Nigerian authorities to do more to curb violence in communities. He said the attack targeted a Christian community and called the situation deeply troubling.
Back home, Nigeria’s leadership has moved to respond. The President directed the Vice President to visit Kebbi and meet with families affected by the attack, assuring them that efforts are underway to bring the girls home safely.
At the same time, the Chief of Army Staff ordered troops involved in the rescue mission to work around the clock until every student is found. He told soldiers on the ground to remain firm and rely on intelligence to locate the kidnappers, warning that the operation must not slow down.
During his visit, the army chief held meetings with commanders and praised the troops for their commitment. He reminded them that the rescue of the children must be treated as a top priority.