NIGERIA: Niger Gov Confirms Attack on St. Mary’s School, Launches Rescue Operation

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The Niger State Government has confirmed and expressed deep concern over the kidnapping of pupils and staff of St. Mary’s School in Papiri community, Agwara Local Government Area, after terrorists invaded the school in the early hours of Friday.

In an official statement, the government described the incident as “disturbing” and confirmed that the number of abducted pupils is still being verified as security operatives continue assessment.

According to the press release, the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, said:

“The Niger State Government has received with deep sadness the disturbing news of the kidnapping of pupils from St. Mary’s School in Agwara Local Government Area. The exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation.”

According to the government, the abduction occurred despite earlier intelligence reports indicating heightened threats in the Niger North Senatorial District.

Based on those warnings, the state had ordered the temporary closure of all boarding schools and suspended construction activities in high-risk zones.

However, the government revealed that St. Mary’s School reopened without official clearance.

The statement added: “Regrettably, St. Mary’s School proceeded to reopen and resume academic activities without notifying or seeking clearance from the State Government, thereby exposing pupils and staff to avoidable risk.”

Reports have it that terrorists stormed the school between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., shooting into the air and abducting students and staff. A source from the school church confirmed the incident, noting that the school was still compiling its records for an official update.

The Head of Disaster and Relief at Agwara Local Government, Ahmed Abdullahi Rofia, also confirmed the development, reportedly stating that the “actual number of abducted students and staff has yet to be determined.”

Security agencies have already launched full-scale investigations and rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils. The government says it is working closely with all security formations in the state.

The official statement further stressed:

“Security agencies have since commenced a full-scale investigation and search-and-rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the pupils.”

It also urged compliance with security directives.

“The Government urges school proprietors, community leaders, and all stakeholders to adhere strictly to security advisories issued in the interest of public safety.”

This incident comes just days after a similar attack in Maga, Kebbi State, where 25 students were kidnapped, and amid rising insecurity across northern communities.

The Niger State Government appealed to the public for calm, reassurance, and cooperation.

“We call on the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that may aid ongoing efforts.”