There was joy and relief in Niger State on Monday as the Federal Government formally handed over 100 rescued students of St Mary’s Catholic School, who were abducted on November 21, 2025. The students, who had been in captivity for more than two weeks, were brought to Government House, Minna, where they were received by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.
The children were handed over by Wing Commander Abdullahi Idi Hong, who represented the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. The handing-over ceremony marked a major step in efforts to restore hope to communities affected by kidnapping and banditry in the state.
Speaking during the ceremony, the NSA, represented by Idi Hong, said the Federal Government remained committed to securing schools, communities, and vulnerable populations across the country. He noted that recent rescue operations were proof that the government was taking stronger measures to combat insecurity.
“We will continue to come up with policies to ensure the safety of every Nigerian child,” he said, stressing that no community would be left behind in the fight against banditry and terrorism.
The NSA also praised the security operatives who participated in the rescue operation, noting that their teamwork and dedication contributed to the safe return of the abducted students. However, he acknowledged that the broader fight against school abductions required long-term planning, investment, and collaboration with state governments.
Governor Bago described the rescue as a major moment in the history of Niger State, saying the safe return of the 100 students showed what could be achieved when the Federal Government and security agencies worked together. He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the NSA, and other partners who played roles in securing the children’s freedom.
“This development is fundamental in redefining the history of Niger State,” Bago said. “We are grateful to President Tinubu, the NSA, and all those who made this possible.”
The governor added that the state government would continue strengthening local security networks and providing more support for rural communities, especially those located near forests and isolated routes that are known to be vulnerable to bandit attacks.
Despite the joyful atmosphere, Governor Bago reminded Nigerians that some students and teachers from the same school were still in captivity. He appealed for continued prayers and support to ensure their safe return.
“We will continue to also pray for the recovery of the remaining children in captivity. We will ensure they are reunited with their parents soon,” he said.
Niger State has experienced repeated kidnappings over the past few years, particularly in areas like Rafi, Shiroro, Mariga, and Kontagora, where bandit groups operate across vast forested areas. The abduction of the St Mary’s Catholic School children once again highlighted the challenges communities face, especially as many schools in rural areas lack security infrastructure.
Nigeria has faced a series of school kidnappings since the 2014 abduction of the Chibok girls in Borno State by Boko Haram. The trend grew worse between 2020 and 2022, when hundreds of schoolchildren were abducted in states such as Katsina, Kaduna, Niger, Zamfara, and Kebbi.
In Niger State alone, several mass abductions have taken place, including the 2021 kidnapping of dozens of students from Tegina Islamic School and the attack on Government Science College, Kagara. These incidents have forced many parents to withdraw their children from school or relocate to safer communities.
The Federal and state governments have since adopted measures to improve security around schools, including strengthening the Safe Schools Initiative, deploying security personnel, and working with local vigilante groups. However, many citizens believe more needs to be done, especially in rural communities where armed groups remain active.
After the brief handover ceremony in Minna, the rescued students were transported in buses to Kontagora, where they were expected to reunite with their parents and families. Parents had gathered in anticipation, many expressing gratitude that their children had returned alive.
Health officials and security personnel accompanied the convoy to ensure the children’s safety and well-being. According to government officials, the students will undergo medical checks and counselling to help them recover from the trauma of captivity.
Across Niger State, residents have expressed relief over the successful operation but also fear that more attacks could occur if security measures are not strengthened. Community leaders have called for more surveillance, especially around schools located close to forests and unguarded routes.
For Governor Bago and security agencies, the next steps will involve building stronger local security structures, improving intelligence gathering, and ensuring that schools remain safe learning spaces.
As the rescued children settle back home, attention now shifts to those still missing. Families continue to pray, and security agencies promise they are intensifying efforts to locate and free the remaining students and teachers.
