The remaining 130 schoolchildren abducted by terrorists from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, on November 21 have been released, bringing an end to weeks of fear, uncertainty and anguish for their families, the school authorities and the wider community.
Security sources confirmed that the freed pupils are expected to arrive in Minna on Monday, where they will be formally received by government officials and reunited with their parents and guardians in time for the Christmas celebrations.
The latest release follows the earlier rescue of 100 students by security forces, raising the total number of freed schoolchildren to 230 and marking a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle the criminal network responsible for the mass abduction.
According to the sources, the release was the outcome of a carefully coordinated, military and intelligence-driven operation involving sustained surveillance, strategic pressure and negotiations aimed at securing the safe return of the children without loss of life. The operation was executed in close collaboration with relevant security and intelligence agencies.
The abduction of the pupils had sparked widespread condemnation and renewed concerns over the safety of schools, particularly in rural and semi-urban communities. It also prompted intensified security operations across parts of Niger State to track the perpetrators and prevent further attacks on educational institutions.
Authorities have commended the security agencies for their professionalism and resilience, while reaffirming the government’s resolve to sustain pressure on terrorist and criminal groups. They also reiterated ongoing commitments to strengthen the protection of schools, improve intelligence gathering and safeguard vulnerable communities across Niger State and the country at large.
The safe release of the pupils has been widely welcomed by residents, religious leaders and civil society groups, who have called for sustained efforts to address the root causes of insecurity and ensure that schools remain safe spaces for learning.
