The Niger State Government has taken custody of 100 schoolchildren recently freed after being abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Umar Mohammed Bago received the pupils on Monday at the Government House in Minna, describing their return as “a huge relief to the state and their families.”
“We are grateful to God and to all security agencies involved for the safe return of these children,” Bago said.
“Our priority is their health, rehabilitation, and reunification with their families. We will also review security around schools to prevent a recurrence.”
The schoolchildren were among hundreds abducted on November 21, when armed assailants invaded the Papiri community around 2 a.m., arriving on motorbikes and operating for nearly three hours. During the attack, at least 315 individuals—largely students and some teachers—were taken away.
In the days following the incident, dozens of pupils reportedly escaped and were reunited with their families, while others remained in captivity until the latest release.
The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, had earlier visited the school and the community, assuring parents and school authorities that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the abducted pupils.
A senior government official present at the reception in Minna said arrangements had been made for medical checks and trauma support.
“These children have been through a terrible experience. Beyond celebrating their return, we must help them heal,” the official said.
