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The remaining 130 abducted pupils and teachers of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, have regained their freedom after spending nearly one month in captivity.
Security sources confirmed that the victims were rescued unhurt on Saturday following coordinated efforts by Nigerian security agencies.
Official records show that 280 pupils and teachers were abducted during an attack on the school on November 21. Shortly after the incident, 50 victims escaped, while the Federal Government secured the release of 100 abductees on December 7 through non-kinetic measures.
According to security sources, the latest rescue operation took place in a forest area between Kwara and Niger states.
Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and vehicles belonging to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) were seen transporting the rescued victims—115 pupils and 15 teachers—to Minna, the Niger State capital.
Residents of nearby communities confirmed sightings of buses conveying the victims from forest locations believed to be hideouts used by terrorists.
A senior security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the abductees were under heavy security and would be formally handed over to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.
“The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, coordinated all agencies, leading to this success. Everyone is relieved that the nightmare is over,” the official said.
The release has brought relief to parents, teachers, and residents who had feared the worst as the captivity dragged on.
The rescue has also been described as a significant morale boost ahead of Christmas celebrations in the state.
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