Quick Summary:
Governor Umaru Bago orders the closure of all schools in Niger State following the abduction of students from St. Mary Catholic School, Papiri, amid rising security concerns.
Statewide School Closure Announced
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has ordered the immediate closure of all schools across the state following the abduction of children from St. Mary Private Primary and Secondary School, a Catholic institution in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
The directive was announced during a press briefing in Minna on Saturday, after an expanded security meeting convened to assess the situation.
Governor Bago described the incident as “unfortunate and avoidable,” stressing that the government’s priority is the safe rescue of the abducted students and others taken alongside them.
Focus on Rescue Efforts
“This incident could have been avoided; however, it is not a time for blame game,” the governor said. “Our mission today is to see how we can rescue these children and all those kidnapped alongside.”
He called on security agencies, civil society organisations, organised labour, and religious leaders to unite and focus on rescue operations, reaffirming the state’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
“According to him, Nigeria is the only country we have, and Niger State is still our state. As such, we must continue as government to protect the lives and property of our citizens,” he added.
Scope and Duration of Closure
Governor Bago explained that the closure affects all private, primary, and secondary schools, religious institutions, Federal Government College Minna, and the Schools of Nursing in Bida and Kontagora.
He said the measure would remain in effect until further notice, describing it as an early Christmas break for students amid the prevailing security challenges.
The governor noted that the exact number of abducted children had not yet been confirmed, as security agencies were conducting headcounts before releasing an official statement.
Background of the Attack
On Thursday, suspected gunmen invaded St. Mary Private Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, abducting an unspecified number of students.
The attack has sparked widespread concern across Niger State, prompting the government to tighten security and review safety protocols in educational institutions.
Governor Bago assured residents that rescue operations are ongoing and that the state government is working closely with federal security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted children.