Nigeria is experiencing a wave of mixed emotions after the government successfully rescued 100 children abducted from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri. The update brings comfort to many families, but more than 150 students and teachers are still missing. The situation has drawn national and international attention as communities call for stronger protections for schools.
The students arrived at Government House in Minna late Monday, escorted by military vans and armored vehicles. Many wore football jerseys, robes, and slippers. Officials greeted them with hugs and handshakes, capturing a powerful moment of relief.
Inside the Rescue
The abducted students were part of a larger group of 303 children taken from their boarding school on November 21, along with 12 teachers. About 50 students escaped shortly after the attack. Families have waited for weeks with little information and rising fear.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago confirmed that the rescued children will reunite with their parents after health workers and trauma experts complete evaluations. He urged the public to continue praying for the safe return of those still held.
National Response and Ongoing Search
President Bola Tinubu praised security agencies for their commitment to rescuing the students. He emphasized that every abducted Nigerian must be accounted for. While official reports say 115 children and 12 teachers remain missing, some news agencies estimate closer to 165.
The government has not disclosed details about how the rescue was achieved or whether ransom payments were involved, a common tactic among armed groups in the region.
Children Speak About Life in Captivity
UNICEF official Theresa Pamma stated that the rescued children will need psychological support after two weeks in captivity. One student, Florence Michael, shared that the captors gave them tarpaulin sheets to sleep on and instructed them to remain silent throughout the ordeal.
Families Wait for Answers
In Papiri, parents learned of the rescue through media reports, not through official communication. Many still do not know if their children are among those freed. Samuel Musa, whose 13 year old son is missing, described the emotional toll on his family. His wife has fallen ill since the abduction.
A Pattern of Violence Across Northern Nigeria
While no group has claimed responsibility, locals blame armed gangs that repeatedly target schools for ransom. This abduction was one of several in recent weeks. Four days earlier, 25 schoolgirls were kidnapped from a secondary school in Kebbi State. In Kwara State, 38 abducted church worshipers were recently freed.
These cases highlight broader security challenges in Nigeria’s diverse population of more than 230 million people. Although international pressure continues to rise, especially from the United States, Nigerian officials say the violence is not targeted at one religious group. Both Muslims and Christians have been victims of the ongoing conflict.
For additional context about how these incidents affect schools and communities, you can explore Nigeria’s Mass School Kidnapping Sparks Urgent Fears for Student Safety for a deeper look at the growing concerns around campus security.
This report draws on original coverage from Al Jazeera, which continues to follow the unfolding situation.
A Community Waiting for a Full Return
As Nigeria works to free the remaining children, families across Papiri cling to hope. Every update brings a mix of relief and fear. The need for stronger school safety systems and long term support for affected communities has never been more urgent.
Educators worldwide are watching closely, learning from each incident, and adapting their own safety practices. If you want to stay informed and connect with others advocating for safer learning environments, join the EDU Passport community. It is a space where educators share experiences, insights, and practical solutions that strengthen school safety and student wellbeing.
