Africa-Press – Nigeria. The Niger State Government has confirmed the kidnapping of pupils from St. Mary’s School in the Papiri area of Agwara Local Government, expressing deep concern over the incident.
In a statement issued on Friday by Alhaji Abubakar Usman, Secretary to the State Government, authorities said the exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be verified as security agencies continue their assessment.
The statement noted that prior intelligence had already indicated heightened threats in parts of the Niger North Senatorial District. In response, the government had earlier suspended construction activities and temporarily closed all boarding schools within the affected zone.
“Regrettably, St. Mary’s School reportedly reopened without notifying or seeking clearance from the government, exposing pupils and staff to serious risks,” it said.
The government confirmed that security agencies have launched a full-scale investigation and search-and-rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the students. Officials are in close contact with all relevant security formations and pledged to provide updates as new information emerges.
Urging strict adherence to security advisories, the statement called on school proprietors, community leaders, and the public to cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that could aid ongoing efforts. “The protection of lives, especially those of our children, remains the utmost priority of this administration,” the statement said.
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