The Niger State Government has confirmed the abduction of an unspecified number of pupils and staff of St. Mary’s School in the Papiri area of Agwara Local Government Area, describing the incident as “deeply distressing and avoidable.”
In a statement issued on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, the government said it was still awaiting an exact headcount as security agencies continue their assessment.
Usman revealed that the attack occurred despite earlier intelligence warnings indicating an elevated threat level across parts of the Niger North Senatorial District. Following the alert, the government had ordered the suspension of all construction activities and directed the temporary closure of all boarding schools in the zone.
“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,” the statement said.
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The SSG added that security agencies have launched full-scale investigations and search-and-rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils. He assured residents that the government remains in close contact with security formations and will provide updates as the situation unfolds.
Authorities urged school proprietors, community leaders, and stakeholders to strictly adhere to security advisories, stressing that the protection of children remains the administration’s top priority. Residents were also encouraged to remain calm and support security personnel with relevant information.
Local sources said the attack occurred between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. on Friday, noting that several pupils were taken during a raid on the Catholic-run school. The exact number remains unclear as records were still being compiled.
The Head of Department, Disaster and Relief, Agwara Local Government, Ahmed Abdullahi Rofia, confirmed the incident by telephone but said verification was ongoing. Police spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun also noted that details would be provided later.
The incident comes barely days after 25 students were abducted in Maga, Kebbi State, amid rising concerns over attacks on educational institutions in the northern region.
In neighbouring Kwara State, bandits recently attacked a CAC church in Eruku, killing three worshippers and abducting more than 20 others — an incident that prompted the state government to shut down over 50 schools.
The recurring assaults on schools have heightened anxiety among parents and renewed calls for stronger community-based security measures across vulnerable areas.