Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has ordered the immediate closure of all schools in the state following the abduction of students and teachers from St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area. The directive was announced during a press briefing after an expanded security meeting in Minna, where the governor described the attack as “unfortunate and avoidable.”
The incident has prompted a swift response from the state government, with Governor Bago calling on security agencies, civil society organizations, labor unions, and religious leaders to unite and focus on rescue efforts. The state government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, and the closure of schools is seen as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The closure affects all private and public primary and secondary schools, religious schools, the Federal Government College Minna, and schools of nursing in Bida and Kontagora. The shutdown will remain in force until further notice, and Governor Bago has explained that it will also serve as an early Christmas break for schools due to rising security concerns.
According to the governor, the exact number of abducted pupils has not been confirmed, as security agencies are still conducting headcounts. An official figure is expected to be released later. The state government’s priority is to rescue the abducted students and staff, and Governor Bago has emphasized the need for collective efforts to address the security challenges facing the state.
The abduction of students and teachers from St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools has highlighted the growing security concerns in Niger State. The state government’s decision to close all schools is aimed at preventing further attacks and ensuring the safety of students and staff. As the rescue efforts continue, the state government has urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to address the security challenges facing the state.
