Kebbi School Girls Kidnapping: How 25 Students Were Taken and Allegedly Released After Nationwide Outcry
25 Kebbi School Girls Kidnapping: How it Happened
While everyone was sleeping, the girls of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State, faced a shocking attack in the early hours of Monday morning between 3am and 4am.
The incident happened on November 17, 2025, when armed kidnappers entered the school premises. During the attack, two people were shot: a staff member and the vice principal; and sadly, the vice principal did not survive.
His wife, Amina Hassan, later shared her experience.
How Did The Attack Happen?
Amina explained that they were all asleep when noises started outside. At first, they thought it was animals, but the sound grew louder. That was when they knew danger was close.
During the confrontation, her husband was killed. The attackers then tried to force her to follow them, but she resisted because of her children. In the chaos, her daughter stepped out to see what was happening, drawing the attackers’ attention. Amina escaped, but the bandits moved toward the school dormitory.
25 School Girls Taken in the Attack
The attackers went straight to the girls’ sleeping area. Without any way to defend themselves, 25 girls were kidnapped and taken away. A few hours later, one girl managed to escape, leaving 24 still missing.
This incident reminded many Nigerians of the 2014 Chibok kidnapping, when 276 schoolgirls were taken. Over a decade later, insecurity in Nigerian schools, especially in the northern region, remains a major concern.
Government Response and Nationwide Reactions
As soon as the news spread, the governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, visited the school and promised to do everything possible to return the girls safely. Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, also arrived in Kebbi State on Wednesday, following instructions from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The government released photos and names of the abducted girls to help the investigation. Nigerians across the country raised their voices online and offline, calling for stronger action and better security for schoolchildren.
Kidnapping for ransom has become a frequent threat in many northern states. Many Nigerians questioned how such attacks continue to happen despite increased security efforts and technological advancements.
People across the country prayed and hoped for the safe return of the abducted Kebbi girls.
Good News: The Girls Have Now Been Released
After days of fear and uncertainty, all the kidnapped girls have now been released. Their return brought relief to families, the school, and Nigerians everywhere.
According to state officials, the girls had been rescued through coordinated efforts by the military, the police, and other security agencies. The rescue was reportedly achieved without paying any ransom. The girls were then immediately taken into custody by authorities and transported to the state capital, Birnin Kebbi, where they were to be reunited with their families. One of the fathers of the rescued students expressed his relief and joy, saying the past days had been extremely painful for his family.
The state governor praised the security forces for their professionalism and speed. He also thanked religious leaders and Nigerians who offered prayers and support during the crisis.
However, this incident remains a strong reminder of the urgent need for better security in schools and safer learning environments for children.
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