Security forces in Niger State have launched an intensive rescue mission following the abduction of an unknown number of students from St. Mary’s Private (Catholic) Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
The Niger State Police Command reported that armed assailants attacked the school hostel around 2 a.m. on Friday, taking several students, though the exact figure remains unconfirmed. The incident has sparked concern among residents and parents in the area.
Police Deploy Tactical Units
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed that tactical police teams, military personnel, and other security agencies have been dispatched to search the surrounding forests and secure the safe release of the abducted students.
Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, assured the public of the Command’s dedication to rescuing the victims unharmed and urged residents to stay calm and support the ongoing operations.
Possible Sanctions for School
Authorities also warned that the school management could face penalties for reopening and conducting classes despite a state directive ordering school closures due to ongoing security threats.
The official statement reads:
“POLICE TACTICAL UNITS, MILITARY COMPONENTS DEPLOYED TO PAPIRI FOR IMMEDIATE RESCUE OF KIDNAPPED STUDENTS OF ST. MARY’S PRIVATE (CATHOLIC) SECONDARY SCHOOL, PAPIRI AGWARA LGA
The Niger State Police Command wishes to confirm that on 21st November, 2025 at about 2.00am, report received indicated that some armed bandits invaded St. Mary’s Private (Catholic) Secondary School, Papiri Agwara LGA and abducted a yet to be ascertained number of students from the School’s hostel.
However, Police tactical units, military components and other security agencies have moved to the scene, combing the forests with a view to rescue the abducted students.
In view of this, the Commissioner of Police Niger State Command CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman reiterated the Command’s commitment to rescue the students unhurt, and appealed to members of the public to remain calm and support security operations to rescue the students.
He further assured that this incident will be investigated and necessary action will be taken against the school management for continuing academic activities, contrary to the State government directive on closure of schools in the area due to security challenges.
SP WASIU ABIODUN
PPRO
Niger State Command21st November, 2025.”
