Around 100 children abducted from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, central Nigeria, have been rescued and brought to Minna, the capital of Niger state. The freed children arrived in a convoy of minibuses safeguarded by military vans and armored vehicles, where they were warmly welcomed by Governor Umar Bago. This group was part of a larger number of over 250 students and 12 staff members who were abducted from the school last month.
The rescued students are scheduled to be transported back to their school in Papiri, approximately 300 kilometers from Minna, to be reunited with their families. Despite this successful release, about 153 students and 12 staff members remain in captivity. The ongoing abduction crisis continues to pose a grave threat to education and community safety in central and northern Nigeria.
Nasarawa state Governor Abdullahi Sule acknowledged the federal government’s crucial but discreet involvement in negotiating the release. Meanwhile, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, had earlier met with a delegation from Papiri led by Bishop Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, assuring them of efforts to secure the children’s safe return. This pledge highlights ongoing security operations and negotiations aimed at rescuing the remaining hostages.
This kidnapping is part of a disturbing surge in attacks on schools and places of worship across northern and central Nigeria. Notably, similar abductions occurred recently in Kwara and Kebbi states, where the victims were fortunately released. However, incidents continue in states such as Kogi and Sokoto, underscoring the persistent security challenges faced by communities and the urgent need for sustained interventions to protect vulnerable populations.
Source: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku