The Niger State Government has condemned the abduction of pupils from St. Mary’s School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area, describing the incident as deeply troubling.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Alh. Abubakar Usman, the government said the report of the raid reached officials with “deep sadness,” noting that security agencies are still working to verify the number of children taken.
The statement recalled that the government earlier received intelligence indicating a heightened threat in parts of the Niger North Senatorial District. Based on that alert, the state issued a directive suspending construction work and ordering the temporary shutdown of all boarding schools across the zone as a precaution.
The government said St. Mary’s School reopened without notifying authorities despite the warning. The release stated that this action “exposed pupils and the staff to avoidable risk.”
Security personnel have begun search-and-rescue operations, while the government maintains close contact with all relevant formations handling the case.
The statement urged school owners, community heads and other groups to comply strictly with security guidance, stressing that safeguarding children remains the priority of the administration.
The public was encouraged to stay calm and assist security agencies with credible information that could support ongoing efforts.
The Press Release from the government stated: “Niger State Government Condemns Kidnapping of pupils in Papiri area in Agwara Local Government, Reiterates Earlier Security Directive
“The Niger State Government has received with deep sadness the disturbing news of the kidnapping of pupils from St. Mary’s School in Agwara Local Government Area. The exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation.
“This unfortunate incident comes despite a prior intelligence report obtained by the government indicating an increased threat level in parts of the Niger North Senatorial District. In response to these credible security alerts, the State Government had earlier issued a clear directive suspending all construction activities and ordering the temporary closure of all boarding schools within the affected zone as a precautionary measure.
“Regrettably, St. Mary’s School proceeded to reopen and resume academic activities without notifying or seeking clearance from the State Government, thereby exposing pupils and the staff to avoidable risk.
“Security agencies have since commenced a full-scale investigation and search-and-rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the pupils. The Niger State Government is in close communication with all relevant security formations and will provide continuous updates as more information becomes available.
“The Government urges school proprietors, community leaders, and all stakeholders to adhere strictly to security advisories issued in the interest of public safety. The protection of lives, especially those of our children, remains the utmost priority of this administration.
“We call on the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that may aid ongoing efforts.”
