Scores of Nigerian soldiers have been injured after terrorists ambushed troops deployed to rescue the 25 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.
The attack occurred less than 24 hours after the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, ordered troops of Operation Fasan Yamma to go “all out” against the attackers and ensure the immediate rescue of the abducted students.
Emphasising the urgency of the mission during his address, Shaibu directed commanders to intensify operations, saying, “You must continue day and night fighting. We must find these children.”
He further urged reliance on actionable intelligence, warning, “Once you receive information on something like this, act professionally and decisively. This is not just about our image; it is about doing our job properly.”
Troops subsequently launched a sustained 24-hour operation, but were ambushed by terrorists, leaving several soldiers severely wounded. Video footage obtained by reporters showed injured soldiers lying on the ground, awaiting evacuation for medical treatment.
One soldier, speaking in pain, was heard saying in Hausa, “Musa has a bullet lodged in his leg. His condition is very bad.”
The operational vehicle used by the troops was also riddled with bullet holes.
Despite the setback, security forces say they are continuing the mission to rescue the schoolgirls while attending to the wounded personnel.
