Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has received the remaining abducted students and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area.
The victims were formally handed over to the state government on Monday by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, who was represented by Major General Adamu Laka.
Speaking during the handover, Laka noted that security agencies had worked round the clock to ensure the safe return of the children. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and safety of Nigerian children, stressing that security operations will continue to focus on protecting communities across the country.
Governor Bago, visibly emotional while welcoming the rescued students and staff, expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the Office of the National Security Adviser for the swift intervention that led to their release.
The latest development comes after the Presidency announced on Sunday that 130 kidnapped pupils had regained freedom. According to presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare, all victims taken from the school are now out of captivity.
Over 300 children, teachers, and school workers were abducted on November 21 when armed men stormed the Catholic school in the early hours of the morning. The attackers, who arrived on motorcycles and in a vehicle, shot the school’s gatekeeper, leaving him critically injured.
Following the incident, the Federal Government launched an extensive security operation, including aerial surveillance across parts of Niger, Kebbi, and Kwara States. A 24-hour security cordon was also imposed, alongside the closure of schools across high-risk areas of Niger State.
Earlier on December 7, authorities confirmed that 100 abducted pupils had been rescued. Governor Bago received that group at the Government House in Minna.
With the latest handover, all abducted students and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School have now returned.
Niger Gov Receives Rescued St. Mary’s Papiri Students, Staff After Weeks in Captivity
