By Nworisa Michael
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has formally received the 100 pupils freed from the mass abduction at St. Mary’s Catholic Private Primary and Secondary School in Papiri. The children arrived at the Government House in Minna on Monday around 5:20 p.m., accompanied by security officials and government representatives, marking an emotional moment for both families and state authorities.
The pupils were among the 315 people abducted when armed men invaded the boarding school on November 21. The attackers took 303 students and 12 teachers from the premises in the early hours of the morning. At the time of the incident, 50 pupils managed to escape within the first 24 hours, but hundreds remained in captivity.
Two weeks after the attack, authorities announced the release of 100 of the abducted children following coordinated rescue efforts involving multiple security agencies, local trackers and extensive aerial surveillance. Many officials credited the breakthrough to sustained pressure on the kidnappers and improved collaboration among security operatives.
During the handover ceremony, Governor Bago expressed gratitude to everyone involved in securing the children’s release and restated his commitment to ensuring the return of all remaining abductees, including dozens of pupils and the 12 teachers still in captivity. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and support ongoing efforts to improve security across the state.
Health and welfare teams have been mobilized to provide medical checks and psychosocial support to the rescued children as they reunite with their families. The state government called for continued prayers and solidarity as the rescue operation for the remaining hostages continues.