Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has ordered the immediate closure of schools across the state following the abduction of students and staff of St. Mary’s Private (Catholic) Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday after an emergency security meeting with service chiefs and key stakeholders at the Government House in Minna, Governor Bago described the incident as “unfortunate and deeply saddening,” noting that Niger State woke up to news that should never have occurred.
“We woke up yesterday to a very sad and unfortunate incident involving the kidnapping of children from a missionary school in Agwara Local Government,” he said. “While this situation could have been avoided, this is not the time to apportion blame. Our immediate mission is to ensure the safe rescue of these children and everyone abducted.”
The governor assured residents of the state government’s unwavering commitment to securing the safe return of the victims, emphasising that all hands must be on deck. He urged security agencies, civil society groups, labour unions, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to unite and strengthen rescue efforts.
“Nigeria is the only country we have, and Niger State is our home. As a government, we will continue to do everything within our power to protect the lives and property of our citizens,” he added.
Following consultations with security operatives and stakeholders, Governor Bago announced the closure of all private primary and secondary schools, including missionary and Islamic schools, throughout the state. He noted that Federal Government College, Minna, and other unity schools had already been shut down by the Federal Government, and additional schools in high-risk or vulnerable areas would also be closed.
He further declared that all schools in the Niger North zone will remain closed until further notice, effectively initiating the Christmas break ahead of schedule for all pupils and students.
Governor Bago also directed security agencies to conduct a thorough headcount to determine the official number of abducted students. “By the end of today, we should have a confirmed figure,” he said.
After the briefing, the governor visited the Papiri community, the site of the abduction, before proceeding to the Ahmed Bola Tinubu International Airport in Minna to receive and show solidarity to the Emir of Borgu. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the affected community receives full government support and attention.
What You Should Know
The abduction in Papiri has prompted a major security response in Niger State, leading to a state-wide shutdown of schools as authorities prioritize the rescue of abducted students and staff.
Governor Bago has mobilized security agencies and community stakeholders, stressing unity and swift action.
With fears rising across vulnerable communities, the government is intensifying efforts to protect schools and reassure families as the search for the missing victims continues.
