The Niger State Government says it is deeply saddened by the kidnapping of pupils from St. Mary’s School in the Papiri area of Agwara Local Government.
Officials say they are still trying to confirm the exact number of children taken, as security agencies are assessing the situation.
State says school ignored earlier directive
The government said this incident happened even after it received intelligence warning of increased security threats in parts of Niger North.
Because of those warnings, the government had earlier ordered all boarding schools in the area to close and asked construction workers to stop work temporarily.
However, St. Mary’s School reopened without informing the government or getting approval, a move the state says put pupils and staff at unnecessary risk.
Security agencies launch rescue operation
Security operatives have started a full investigation and are carrying out search-and-rescue operations to bring the pupils back safely.
The government says it is working closely with all security agencies and will update the public as more information comes in.
The state also appealed to school owners, community leaders and stakeholders to obey all security advisories for the safety of everyone, especially children.
It urged the public to remain calm and assist security agencies with any helpful information.
