The Niger State Government has confirmed the abduction of an unspecified number of pupils and staff from St. Mary’s School in the Papiri area of Agwara Local Government. The incident, described as “deeply distressing and avoidable,” occurred despite earlier intelligence indicating an elevated threat level in the region.

According to a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Alh. Abubakar Usman, security agencies are still assessing the situation and awaiting a precise headcount of those abducted. The government had issued a security directive suspending construction activities and ordering the temporary closure of all boarding schools in the zone due to the heightened threat level. However, St. Mary’s School reopened without notifying or seeking clearance from the state government, exposing pupils and staff to unnecessary risk.

Security agencies have launched a full-scale investigation and search-and-rescue operation to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils. The government has assured the public that it remains in close communication with security formations and will provide updates as the situation unfolds. Authorities have urged school proprietors, community leaders, and stakeholders to adhere to security advisories, emphasizing that the protection of lives, especially those of children, is the administration’s top priority.

The attack on St. Mary’s School occurred between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. on Friday, with local accounts indicating that many students were taken during the raid. The exact number of abducted students and staff remains unclear, as records are still being compiled. The incident has heightened anxiety among parents and revived calls for strengthened community-based security measures across vulnerable communities.

This development comes just days after 25 students were kidnapped in Maga, Kebbi State, and a recent attack on a church in Kwara State left three worshippers dead and over 20 abducted. The recurring attacks on educational institutions have raised concerns over worsening security in the northern region. The Niger State Government’s response to the incident and the ongoing search-and-rescue operation will be closely monitored as the situation continues to unfold.