Niger Government Condemns Abduction of School Children

Minna, Nigeria — November 20, 2025

The Niger State Government has strongly condemned the abduction of students from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, describing the incident as unacceptable and deeply distressing.

In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abubakar Usman, authorities confirmed that a full-scale investigation as well as a coordinated search-and-rescue operation is currently underway to ensure the safe return of the abducted students.

Usman noted that the government had earlier placed restrictions in the vulnerable area, including suspension of construction activities and closure of boarding schools due to heightened security threats. Despite this directive, St. Mary’s Private Catholic Secondary School reportedly reopened without official clearance, a move the government says exposed both students and staff to avoidable danger.

The SSG emphasized that the state government is working closely with relevant security agencies, maintaining constant communication and monitoring developments as rescue efforts continue. He urged residents, community leaders, and the general public to provide timely and useful information that may assist security operatives in locating the victims and apprehending the perpetrators.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring that schools remain safe spaces for learning, while assuring parents and guardians that every necessary measure is being deployed to bring the children home safely.