The Kebbi State Government has officially reopened the Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, following the traumatic abduction and successful rescue of two dozen students from the institution.
School Resumes with Enhanced Security Measures
Dr. Halima Bande, the State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, made the announcement on Tuesday. This followed a crucial security meeting held with school principals and heads in Birnin Kebbi. The students, who were kidnapped in November of last year, were later rescued by security operatives and formally presented to Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House on November 25, 2025.
Bande stated that confidence among parents and pupils has been rebuilt. This was achieved through comprehensive counselling sessions and the full deployment of security personnel to the school premises. These actions have paved the way for the safe resumption of academic activities.
Governor's Directive on Security Awareness
The commissioner reaffirmed the state government's unwavering commitment to implementing all necessary measures to safeguard students and staff. She revealed that Governor Nasir Idris has directed the organisation of security awareness programmes for principals and school staff. This initiative aims to prevent any recurrence of such security breaches.
Similar sensitisation sessions have already been conducted in several areas, including:
- Zuru
- Yauri
- Jega
- Bunza
- Argungu
The final session of this series was held in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday.
Collective Responsibility for Safety
Dr. Bande emphasised that maintaining school security is a shared duty. "Principals, vice-principals, staff and students all have vital roles to play," she said. She issued a powerful call to action, stating, "We must not allow our collective psyche for peaceful living to be taken away by bandits."
The overarching goal of these meetings is to ensure the smooth operation of schools. This is to be achieved by heightening security consciousness and fostering a conducive learning environment for all.
Engaging Communities and Security Agencies
The commissioner also urged school authorities to cultivate strong relationships with their host communities. She described these communities as critical stakeholders in the local security framework. Furthermore, she advised principals to maintain regular contact with security agencies for professional guidance, stressing the importance of proactive rather than reactive measures.
Bande commended Governor Idris for approving the deployment of security personnel to schools, a move she said has significantly boosted the confidence of teachers and learners. She also praised the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS) for educating school principals on security awareness and proactive safety strategies.
