After Coordinated Operations, Papiri School Abductees Fully Rescued – FG

After Coordinated Operations, Papiri School Abductees Fully Rescued – FG

The Federal Government has confirmed the successful rescue of all abducted pupils and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, Niger State, bringing to an end weeks of anxiety following the mass abduction that shocked the nation.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced that the remaining 130 pupils and staff earlier held in captivity had been freed, completing the rescue of all 230 abducted victims.

According to the minister, the latest release followed sustained, intelligence-driven and coordinated operations by Nigeria’s security forces, working in synergy to dismantle the criminal network responsible for the abduction and secure the safe release of the victims.

“The Federal Government can confirm that all the abducted pupils of the Catholic School, Papiri, numbering 230, have been freed. Not a single pupil is left in captivity,” the statement said.

The minister disclosed that the newly rescued 130 pupils and staff are being formally handed over to the Niger State Government, after which they will be reunited with their families. He described the development as a moment of triumph and national relief, particularly as the country approaches the Christmas festivities.

Idris praised the gallantry and professionalism of the security forces involved in the operation, noting that the successful outcome reaffirmed the government’s resolve to protect the lives of citizens, especially schoolchildren who have increasingly become targets of criminal gangs.

“This courageous effort by our security forces reaffirms our nation’s resolve to protect its people,” he stated.

The Federal Government also expressed deep empathy with the parents and guardians of the abducted pupils, acknowledging the trauma and emotional distress caused by the incident. Idris wished the families a smooth healing process, peaceful reunions, and extended compliments of the season.

The Papiri abduction had sparked nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over the safety of schools, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities. The full rescue of the victims is expected to ease public tension, even as calls persist for sustained security measures to prevent a recurrence.

The government reiterated its commitment to strengthening security operations and safeguarding educational institutions across the country, assuring Nigerians that efforts to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes remain a top priority.