FG Secures Release of 100 Abducted Niger Pupils, as 153 Pupils, 12 Teachers Remain in Captivity

The Federal Government has reportedly secured the release of 100 schoolchildren abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area, Niger State, following an attack by bandits that took 315 people, including 303 students and 12 teachers, two weeks ago.

With the release, 153 pupils and all 12 teachers remain in captivity. Details of the release remain sketchy, and authorities have not confirmed whether ransom was paid or if the release was unconditional.

Sources said the rescued pupils are currently undergoing medical evaluation and will be reunited with their families after debriefing. Security agencies continue efforts to secure the release of the remaining captives and prevent further attacks in the region.

The incident follows a string of recent abductions in northern Nigeria, including 25 students from a girls’ secondary school in Kebbi State and worshippers from a church in Kwara State, as well as the killing of a senior army officer, General Sani Uba, by suspected ISWAP fighters.

Parents of the abducted pupils have been anxiously awaiting updates. Some of the children who returned independently after fleeing the initial attack were reunited with their families, according to reports from the Christian Association of Nigeria and local media outlets.

“The children are safe now, and we are grateful for the efforts of security agencies. They will be medically evaluated and debriefed before returning home,” a source close to the rescue operation said.

“Some of the children were very young, and their families feared the worst. The government’s intervention has brought relief, but our prayers remain with those still in captivity,” a parent added.

Authorities, including the Federal Ministry of Education, continue to monitor the situation, while security forces maintain deployment across vulnerable areas in Niger and neighbouring states to prevent further abductions and attacks.