Following an attack in Kebbi State, armed terrorists have attacked St. Mary’s School in Papiri, a Catholic school in Niger State.
It was also gathered that the terrorist kidnapped scores of students, including members of staff, at the Catholic school in Niger State.
The incident reportedly occurred between 2 am and 3 am on Friday.
In a statement, the Niger state government said, “It has received with deep sadness the disturbing news of the kidnapping of pupils from St. Mary’s School in Agwara Local Government Area. The exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation”.
The statement, signed by Abubakar Usman, secretary to the Niger state government, said the state received a prior intelligence report indicating an increased threat level in parts of the northern senatorial district.
The statement added: “In response to these credible security alerts, the State Government had earlier issued a clear directive suspending all construction activities and ordering the temporary closure of all boarding schools within the affected zone as a precautionary measure.
“Security agencies have since commenced a full-scale investigation and search-and-rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the pupils.
“The Niger State Government is in close communication with all relevant security formations and will provide continuous updates as more information becomes available.
“The Government urges school proprietors, community leaders, and all stakeholders to adhere strictly to security advisories issued in the interest of public safety.
“The protection of lives, especially those of our children, remains the utmost priority of this administration.”
Also, the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has confirmed the attack on the Catholic school in Niger State.
The attack was confirmed in a statement signed by Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph, the Diocesan Secretary.
The statement reads: “This is to inform us that armed attackers invaded St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, in the early hours of 21st November 2025, abducting some pupils, students, teachers, and a security personnel who was badly shot.
“The incident occurred between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., causing fear and distress within the school community.
“The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora strongly condemned the attack and expressed deep concern for the safety of the kidnapped children and their families. Security agencies were immediately informed and have begun coordinated efforts to ensure the safe rescue and return of the victims.
“The Bishop assured the public that the Diocese is actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities.
“The Diocese called on the public to remain calm, support security efforts, and continue praying for the safe and quick return of all abducted. It also reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of children and promised to provide further updates as verified information becomes available.
“May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect his people from all danger.”
The attack on the Catholic school in Niger State arrives on the heels of the abduction of 25 female students from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State.
Hassan Makuku, the school’s vice principal, lost his life during the attack, while Ali Shehu, a security guard, sustained gunshot injuries to his right hand.
