President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the release of 100 students abducted from the Papiri Catholic School in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, describing the development as a relief for families and the nation.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu directed security agencies to secure the immediate freedom of the remaining 115 pupils and their teachers. “My directive remains that all the students… must be rescued and brought back home safely,” he said.
Tinubu commended Governor Umar Bago and security operatives for their efforts so far, saying the Federal Government is working with the state to reunite the freed children with their families and tighten security around schools nationwide. “Our children should no longer be sitting ducks for heartless terrorists,” he added.
The attack occurred on November 21 when gunmen stormed St. Mary’s Catholic School at daybreak, abducting more than 200 children and staff. Monday’s release brings the number of those freed to 100, leaving 115 still in captivity.
Mass school abductions have continued across Nigeria since the 2014 Chibok incident, with Niger, Kebbi and Kwara states recently recording coordinated raids on schools and worship centres.
Tinubu said the ongoing nationwide security emergency declared on November 26 has intensified rescue operations. According to Onanuga, these efforts will continue until all Papiri hostages are freed and schools across the country are safer.
