President Bola Tinubu has confirmed the passing of Musa Uba, a brigadier general who lost his life while actively engaging insurgents in Borno state.
Reports indicate that Uba was killed by fighters from Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) after they ambushed a convoy of soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Borno.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Tinubu conveyed profound grief over the loss of the general and other personnel, extending condolences to their families and the nation’s military community.
Tinubu also addressed the recent abduction of 25 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko/Wasagu LGA of Kebbi state.
He noted that the kidnapping occurred despite earlier intelligence alerts indicating a potential attack by bandits.
The president commended Governor Mohammed Idris of Kebbi state for the steps taken to avert the incident.
Tinubu further instructed Vice-President Kashim Shettima to travel to Kebbi to console the state government and reassure the parents and guardians of the abducted students that the federal government is fully committed to ensuring their prompt and safe rescue.
Expressing concern over the security lapse that enabled the abduction, the president urged communities nationwide—especially those in vulnerable regions—to share relevant information and intelligence with the military, police, and the Department of State Services (DSS).
He emphasized that security agencies rely heavily on community cooperation to function effectively.
“As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes,” he said.
“It is heartbreaking that terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed security agencies to act swiftly to bring the girls back to Kebbi State.”
The president called on community leaders and citizens, especially those in conflict-affected areas, to share actionable information that can support ongoing security operations.
“Your cooperation is crucial in our fight against these security challenges,” he added.