In an atmosphere of relief and celebration, the Kebbi State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Halima Bande, on Wednesday formally handed over 24 rescued schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga.

Dr. Bande confirmed that the schoolgirls were in good health and had not been molested during their captivity. She commended the resilience and commitment of Governor Nasir Idris, noting that he remained actively involved in efforts to ensure their safe return.

“Since the time the schoolgirls were abducted, the governor stayed back to ensure their rescue,” she said. “We can’t thank the governor enough for his doggedness. He has been restless and has lost sleep since then.”

Speaking on behalf of the parents, Malam Illiyasu Garba expressed gratitude to the governor for his unwavering support throughout the ordeal. “We already have a firm belief that whatever Governor Idris cannot do does not exist. Therefore, we had conviction and confidence that our children would return safely,” he said.

Dr. Bande also extended appreciation to the military, religious leaders, and all individuals who contributed directly or indirectly to the rescue operation.

Receiving the girls, Kebbi State First Lady, Zainab Nasare Idris, described the past days as an emotionally heavy period for families and citizens across the state. She praised the swift rescue efforts, noting that Kebbi was fortunate to secure the girls’ freedom within a week.

She urged parents not to lose faith in the value of education because of the incident, assuring them that the state government would put stronger measures in place to prevent future occurrences. “Every good citizen of Kebbi State has been worried since the incident,” she said. “We thank Almighty Allah for the successful rescue operations.”

The return of the students marks a significant relief for families and the wider Kebbi community, as the state intensifies efforts to strengthen school security amid growing concerns nationwide.