Appreciation Message from Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi (Rtd)
Dated: 4th April 2025
On behalf of Brigadier General M.I. Tsiga, friends, colleagues, and associates, I, Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi (Rtd), wish to express our deepest gratitude to all who stood by us during a most distressing period—the abduction and eventual release of General M.I. Tsiga.
General Tsiga was forcibly taken from his residence in Tsiga Town, Bakori LGA, Katsina State, on the 5th of February 2025. From the moment we received the shocking news, Major General L.B. Bunza and I began collaborating closely to ensure his safe return.
On the 9th of February 2025, we established a WhatsApp platform simply named “TSIGA” to keep the public informed and to mobilize support for the cause. When the abductors eventually demanded a ransom of ₦400,000,000, we made the difficult decision to appeal for donations through the platform.
The response was nothing short of extraordinary. Over 300 patriotic Nigerians comprising retired and serving military officers, academics, ambassadors, businesspeople, and civilians from every walk of liferallied together in solidarity.
To ensure full transparency and accountability, we agreed that all donations should be sent directly to General Tsiga’s Unity Bank account, which was promptly shared by his son, Kamal. Initially, I provided updates on incoming donations, but due to valid security concerns raised by some members, we halted public updates while maintaining accurate internal records.
Between 22nd February and 15th March 2025, the generous outpouring of support reinforced one powerful truth: Together, we can.
On behalf of General Tsiga and his family, I thank each and every one of you for your financial, moral, and spiritual support. Your compassion and unity were instrumental in securing his safe release.
As I write this, on 4th April 2025, I feel a profound sense of fulfillment. Our collective effort has achieved its goal—General M.I. Tsiga is free.
Thank you all. May God bless and protect you and your families.
Signed:
Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi (Rtd)
4 April 2025
