The Niger State Government has condemned the kidnapping of students from St Mary’s School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
Authorities noted that the abduction occurred despite an earlier security directive issued for schools in parts of Niger North.
In a statement released on Friday, Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman, revealed that the government had received intelligence alerting them to increased threats in the region and had subsequently ordered a temporary closure of boarding schools, along with a suspension of construction activities in the affected area.
“We had credible security alerts and directed all boarding schools in the zone to close,” Mr Usman said.
“St Mary’s School went ahead to reopen and resume activities without notifying the government or seeking clearance.”
He added that the exact number of students abducted was still being determined as security agencies continued their assessment of the situation.
“Security agencies have begun full investigation and search-and-rescue operations,” he said.
The government also called on school operators and community leaders to comply with official advisories.
“The protection of lives, especially those of our children, remains our priority,” Mr Usman said.
The attack on St Mary’s School follows closely on the heels of a similar incident in Maga, Kebbi State, where 25 students were recently kidnapped, highlighting ongoing concerns over the security of schools in the region.
