All remaining students abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, have regained their freedom, bringing an end to weeks of anxiety for families and the school community.
The Niger State Police Command confirms the release on Sunday evening, noting that the students and affected staff members return safely after spending nearly one month in captivity, Mediaplusng.com reports. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, says the command will provide further updates as details continue to emerge.
The latest release follows an earlier breakthrough about two weeks ago, when 100 abducted students regain freedom and reunite with their families. At that time, more than 100 students and staff members remain in captivity, raising fresh concerns about safety in rural school communities across the state.
Security sources say sustained pressure from security agencies and coordinated efforts contribute to the eventual release of all remaining captives, Mediaplusng.com understands. Parents, religious leaders, and residents welcome the development, describing it as a major relief after weeks of fear and uncertainty.
The students are among 315 persons abducted on November 21, 2025, when heavily armed bandits invade the school community around 2:00 a.m. Reports indicate that the attackers operate for nearly three hours, moving freely within the area and carting away 303 students and 12 teachers in one of the largest school abductions recorded in the state.
The incident sparks nationwide outrage and renewed debate about the safety of schools, especially in remote communities. Civil society groups, parents’ associations, and religious bodies repeatedly call on governments at all levels to strengthen security around educational institutions and prevent future attacks.
Following the abduction, security agencies launch intensive operations across parts of Niger State and neighboring areas, while community leaders and faith-based organizations also engage in dialogue to support rescue efforts. Authorities maintain that no effort is spared to ensure the safe return of all victims.
With the release of the remaining students, calm gradually returns to Papiri and surrounding communities. Parents express gratitude to security agencies and all parties involved, while also urging the government to address the root causes of banditry and insecurity.
Residents and education stakeholders now renew calls for improved intelligence gathering, stronger rural security presence, and better protection for schools to ensure that students can learn in a safe and secure environment across Niger State and beyond.
