About 100 children abducted from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, central Nigeria, last month have been released, authorities say. Originally, more than 250 students and 12 staff were kidnapped during the attack on 21 November.
Niger state police chief Adamu Abdullahi Elleman and Bishop Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, the head of the school, confirmed the children’s release. The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) said the students will begin reuniting with their parents from Monday.
The exact circumstances of the release remain unclear, including whether negotiations, a rescue operation, or ransom payments were involved.
Federal Government and Security Efforts
Governor Abdullahi Sule of neighbouring Nasarawa state said the federal government played a key role in securing the release. He added that details of the efforts are being kept secret for security reasons.
Earlier, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu visited the school and met a delegation led by Bishop Yohanna. Ribadu assured them that the children would soon be rescued and reunited with their families.
Part of a Surge in Kidnappings
The attack on St Mary’s is part of a growing wave of kidnappings targeting schools and places of worship in north and central Nigeria. Recent incidents include:
- Christ Apostolic Church, Kwara State (18 November): 38 people abducted, two killed.
- Government Girls’ Secondary School, Kebbi State (17 November): 25 Muslim students abducted, two killed.
All those kidnapped in Kwara and Kebbi have since been released.
Last week, gunmen abducted at least 20 people in two separate attacks. In central Kogi state, a pastor, his wife, and worshipers were taken from a newly established church. In northern Sokoto state, a bride and her bridesmaids were kidnapped.
Who Is Behind the Attacks?
Authorities have not confirmed the perpetrators. Analysts say criminal gangs seeking ransom are likely responsible, while the government suspects jihadist groups.
Although ransom payments are illegal in Nigeria, money is believed to have been paid in some cases to secure the release of hostages.
Nigeria’s security crisis has drawn international attention, including warnings of potential foreign intervention over attacks on civilians. Officials stress that people of all faiths have been targeted, countering claims that Christians are the sole victims.