President Bola Tinubu has pledged comprehensive support for the families of 11 security personnel killed in a bandit ambush in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, describing their deaths as a painful reminder of the sacrifices made in defence of the nation.

The President’s message was delivered in Birnin Kebbi by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a condolence visit to the Kebbi State Government House. The delegation met with Governor Nasir Idris, senior government officials, traditional rulers and security chiefs, underscoring the gravity with which the Federal Government views the incident.

Tinubu condemned the attack as a barbaric act and paid tribute to the fallen operatives, who were reportedly ambushed while responding to a distress call from residents in Shanga. He said their courage in the face of danger exemplified the highest ideals of national service and vowed that their families would not be abandoned.

He assured the state that the Federal Government was intensifying efforts to combat banditry and other forms of violent crime, promising closer collaboration with security agencies and state authorities to restore peace to affected communities in Kebbi and beyond.

The President also extended condolences over the death of the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Muhammad Usman-Zuru, whose passing has further deepened the state’s sense of loss. Usman-Zuru had been flown abroad for medical treatment but did not survive despite extensive efforts to save his life.

Governor Idris said the visit reflected the President’s solidarity with Kebbi at a time of mourning, noting that the slain personnel were killed while protecting vulnerable citizens. He stressed that their deaths highlighted the daily risks faced by security operatives on the frontlines of Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.

The Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sanusi Mika’ilu, commended both the Federal and state governments for standing by the bereaved families and affected communities. He called for sustained support for security agencies and renewed cooperation between citizens and authorities to help track criminal networks.

The killings have renewed public concern over persistent insecurity in parts of Kebbi State, where bandit attacks, kidnappings and rural violence have disrupted livelihoods. Authorities insist that ongoing operations and new security measures will be strengthened to prevent further bloodshed and honour the memory of those who died in uniform.