Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has ordered the immediate closure of all schools in the state following the abduction of students from a Catholic school in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area. He announced the directive during a press briefing after an expanded security meeting in Minna on Saturday. The governor described the incident as unfortunate and avoidable, stressing that the priority should be rescuing the abducted children rather than assigning blame.
Governor Bago called on security agencies, civil society organizations, labor unions, and religious leaders to unite in efforts to secure the release of the kidnapped students. The closure applies to all private, primary, and secondary schools, as well as religious schools, Federal Government College Minna, and nursing schools in Bida and Kontagora. It will remain in effect until further notice, effectively serving as an early Christmas break for primary and secondary schools due to prevailing security concerns.
The exact number of abducted students has not been confirmed, as security agencies are currently conducting headcounts. An official statement is expected later in the day. The abduction occurred on Thursday at St. Mary Private Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
Governor Bago reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of its citizens, emphasizing that Niger State remains their home and Nigeria their country. He urged all stakeholders to work together to address the security challenges facing the state. The incident has raised concerns about school safety in the region, highlighting the need for increased security measures to prevent future occurrences. The governor’s directive to close all schools is a precautionary measure aimed at protecting students and preventing further abductions. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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