One of the 25 schoolgirls abducted from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga town, Kebbi State, has escaped and is reported safe, authorities confirmed on Tuesday, November 19, 2025. The escapee arrived home late on Monday, soon after the predawn attack on the school by gunmen. Another student managed to flee immediately during the raid and was not taken by the abductors.

The school principal, Musa Rabi Magaji, confirmed the escape and assured that the girls are safe and sound. A video verified by the Associated Press showed the two young girls, believed to be in their early teens, reunited with family members in their village.

The attack, which occurred before dawn on Monday, involved gunmen arriving on multiple motorcycles who stormed the school, killing the vice principal, Hassan Yakubu Makuku. His wife, Amina Hassan, recounted the harrowing moment when attackers identified and threatened her husband before killing him.

In response to the attack, Nigerian security forces have ramped up efforts to locate and rescue the remaining abducted girls. The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered Operation FANSAN YANMA troops to intensify intelligence-driven, day-and-night search and rescue operations, emphasizing that success in finding the girls is not optional.

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris visited the school and pledged swift action to ensure the safe return of the girls. Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu sent Vice President Kashim Shettima to Kebbi State to meet with grieving families and reiterate the government's commitment to resolving the crisis.

The abduction is part of a larger trend of insecurity in northern Nigeria, where armed bandits and former herders frequently attack schools, villages, and travelers, causing widespread fear and instability. As of the report’s publication, the remaining girls are still missing, with security teams continuing their search amid growing concern from families and communities.