Nigerian authorities have confirmed the release of all remaining pupils and teachers abducted from a Catholic boarding school in Niger State, bringing an end to one of the country’s most alarming mass kidnappings in recent years.
Officials say the final group of 130 children and staff members taken from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri have now been freed, ensuring that no student remains in captivity. The federal government described the development as a moment of relief and victory for the nation.
The abduction occurred on 21 November when armed attackers stormed the school and kidnapped more than 250 students and staff. Earlier in December, security agencies secured the release of about 100 of the pupils, leaving dozens still in the hands of the kidnappers until now.
Niger State Police Command confirmed that the rescued children and teachers are currently undergoing security and medical checks before being transported back to their school, where they are expected to reunite with their families.
The Catholic Bishop overseeing the school also verified the release, saying he had been officially notified and asked to receive the freed pupils. Local emergency officials reported scenes of joy and relief among parents in Papiri, many of whom are expected to gather at the school to welcome their children home.
Authorities acknowledged that initial figures surrounding the kidnapping were inconsistent, attributing the confusion to early reports from the school’s management. However, police have now confirmed that the 130 released account for everyone still held after the earlier rescue.
The government has not disclosed how the release was secured, and officials declined to confirm whether ransom payments were involved, citing security concerns.
The kidnapping at St Mary’s was part of a disturbing wave of attacks on schools and places of worship across northern and central Nigeria. In the days leading up to the incident, dozens of worshippers and students were abducted in similar attacks in Kwara and Kebbi states. All victims from those incidents have since been freed.
Security analysts believe most of the abductions are carried out by criminal gangs motivated by ransom, rather than ideological groups.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security around schools and learning centres, pledging continued collaboration with state governments to protect children and ensure safer educational environments nationwide.