The remaining 130 kidnapped pupils and teachers of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, have regained freedom after a month in captivity.

Official figures show that 280 pupils and teachers were abducted on November 21. Of that number, 50 escaped, while 100 were released on December 7 through non‑kinetic means.

The latest release, involving 115 pupils and 15 teachers, took place on Saturday in a forest straddling Kwara and Niger states.

Armoured Personnel Carriers and vehicles from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) were seen conveying the freed abductees to Minna, the Niger State capital.

Residents reported evacuations from the National Park, a forest reportedly used by terrorists, while white buses were sighted moving towards Babana.

A senior security official confirmed the handover to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, describing the rescue as a relief for anxious parents and staff.

The operation was coordinated by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

Government, Clergy, and Leaders React to Rescue

Minister of Information Mohammed Idris hailed the release as a “fitting end to the year,” confirming that all abducted pupils—numbering 230—have now been freed. He empathised with parents, wishing them a pleasant reunion and a Merry Christmas.

Presidential spokesman Sunday Dare posted on X: “Another 130 abducted Niger State pupils released, none left in captivity,” accompanied by a photo of smiling children.

The Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, also confirmed the release after being informed by Governor Bago.

Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun verified the rescue, noting further details would follow. Sources said intensive negotiations preceded the release, beginning Thursday night.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State described the development as proof that “evil will not prevail over Nigeria,” urging prosecution of those responsible.

He cited recent rescues in Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara as evidence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s resolve to tackle insecurity.

A report by The New Humanitarian highlighted the scale of the crisis: since January 2023, at least 816 pupils have been abducted in 22 school attacks, underscoring Nigeria’s multi‑million‑dollar kidnapping industry.

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