The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, has confirmed that the military is fully engaged in ongoing operations to rescue students abducted in Kebbi and Niger States and to apprehend the perpetrators.

In a statement on Sunday, the DHQ condemned the attacks and assured that all abductees would be rescued and perpetrators brought to justice.

The military also said it had launched an investigation into claims that troops stationed at the Kebbi school were withdrawn 30 minutes before the attack.

“Regarding the allegation made by the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, that the terrorists struck shortly after troops were withdrawn from the school, the Defence Headquarters is aware of this claim. A thorough review is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding troop deployment and movements at the time of the incident,” the statement read.

The DHQ acknowledged concerns over rising insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria but reiterated that the military is working closely with state authorities, community leaders, and other security agencies to protect schools and vulnerable communities.

“We assure Nigerians that the rescue effort is a top priority, and our troops are actively pursuing all actionable intelligence to ensure the safe return of the abducted students,” it said.