The Niger State Government has condemned the kidnapping of pupils from St. Mary’s School in the Papiri area of Agwara Local Government, describing the incident as “deeply distressing.”
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, the government said the exact number of abducted pupils is still being verified as security agencies continue to assess the situation.
The statement noted that the attack occurred despite earlier intelligence reports indicating increased security threats in parts of Niger North Senatorial District. Acting on those reports, the State Government had ordered the suspension of all construction activities and the temporary closure of all boarding schools in the affected zone.
However, St. Mary’s School reportedly reopened without notifying or seeking clearance from the authorities—an action the government says exposed pupils and staff to avoidable danger.
Security agencies have since launched a full investigation alongside a coordinated search-and-rescue operation aimed at securing the safe return of the pupils. The government assured that it is in constant communication with security formations and will provide updates as developments unfold.
The statement urged school proprietors, community leaders, and residents to strictly adhere to security advisories issued in the interest of public safety, emphasizing that the protection of lives—especially those of children—remains the administration’s top priority.
