…State Government condemns attack, reiterates Earlier Security Directive
FRI NOV 21 2025-theGBJournal| Heavily armed terrorist stuck last night in Niger State, attacking and adducting an unknown number of students in St. Mary’s Boarding School in Papiri area, Agwara local Government of the State.
The attack is coming four days after terrorists raided Government Girls Secondary School in Kebbi State, killing the Vice Principal, Hassan Yakubu Makuku and abducted an unknown number of female students.
The case remains unsolved.
Meanwhile, the Niger State Government said in a statement released by the Secretary to the Niger State Government, Alh. Abubakar Usman, that they received the disturbing news with deep sadness.
He confirmed that the exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation.
”This unfortunate incident comes despite prior intelligence report obtained by the government indicating an increased threat level in parts of Niger North Senatorial District,” Usman said.
He explained that 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.
”Regrettably, St. Mary’s School proceeded to reopen and resume academic activities without notifying or seeking clearance from the State Government, thereby exposing pupils and the staff to avoidable risk.”
”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,” Usman noted.
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.
We call on the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that may aid ongoing efforts.
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