The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has claimed that most bandit leaders and their foot soldiers have been wasted, adding that “what remains now are a few scattered elements.”
He added that President Bola Tinubu has directed troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to eliminate the remaining bandit elements in the North-West.
It was earlier reported that the Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that no fewer than 25 students were abducted from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area, early Monday morning. 
This was in a statement issued in Abuja by the minister’s Director of Information, Ibrahim Sule.
Matawalle delivered the message shortly after observing Juma’at prayers at the Command Mosque.
According to the statement, the minister conveyed Tinubu’s appreciation for the troops’ patriotism, courage, and “remarkable successes in decimating bandit formations across the Northwest.”
He told the soldiers: “Mr. President specifically asked me to tell you that you have done exceedingly well.
“Most of the key bandit leaders and their foot soldiers have been neutralised through your gallant effort. What remains now are a few scattered elements, and the Commander-in-Chief has directed that these remnants must be wiped out completely.
“He assures you of every necessary support — logistics, equipment, welfare, and morale — to finish the job,” he said.
Matawalle was received by the Theatre Commander, Major-General Warrah Bello Idris, who briefed him on recent operational achievements, including the neutralisation of high-value targets and the recovery of communities previously under bandit control.
The minister commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism, describing their sacrifices as “the bedrock of the gradual return of peace to Zamfara and neighbouring states.”
Idris welcomed the visit, calling it “a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s personal interest in the welfare and operational success of troops in the Northwest.”
Addressing hundreds of officers and soldiers on the parade ground, Matawalle urged them to sustain vigilance and discipline, insisting that total victory was within sight.
“Your sacrifices will never be in vain. The President is proud of you, the nation is proud of you, and very soon, the people of this region will sleep with their two eyes closed,” he declared.
