The Niger State Police Command and the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora have confirmed the abduction of students, pupils, teachers, and a security guard from St Mary’s Private Catholic Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area. The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday, specifically between 1:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. on November 21, 2025, when armed bandits or terrorists invaded the school's hostel, whisking students away and loading them in a bus.

The exact number of abductees remains unclear, with various reports indicating anything from 'a yet to be ascertained number' to 'dozens' or 'between 50 to 100.' The school was still compiling its records following the incident. One security personnel was reportedly shot and badly injured during the invasion, causing fear and distress within the school community.

Following the attack, police tactical units, military components, and other security agencies were immediately deployed to the scene. These teams have moved to the scene and are currently combing the forests in the area with the objective of rescuing the abducted individuals. The Commissioner of Police, Adamu Abdullahi Elleman (also referred to as Adamu Elleman), has reiterated the command's commitment to ensuring the safe return of the students unhurt and has appealed to residents to remain calm and support the ongoing security operations.

The Niger State Government, through its Secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, condemned the abduction. The government revealed that the incident transpired despite earlier security intelligence warnings of heightened security threats in parts of the Niger North Senatorial District, which had led to a directive for the temporary closure of all boarding schools within the affected zone as a preventive measure.

Regrettably, St. Mary’s School proceeded to reopen for academic activities without notifying or seeking clearance from the State Government, thereby exposing its pupils, students, and staff to 'avoidable danger.' The police command, through its spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun (also referred to as SP W. A Abiodun), has stated its intention to investigate and take necessary action against the school management for defying the state directive. The government has assured the public that a full-scale investigation and coordinated search-and-rescue efforts are underway, and it remains in close communication with security agencies, while urging school proprietors, traditional and community leaders, and all stakeholders to adhere strictly to security advisories. The protection of lives, especially those of children, remains the utmost priority of this administration.

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora strongly condemned the attack, expressing deep concern for the safety of those kidnapped. The Diocesan Secretary, Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph, confirmed the Diocese's active collaboration with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities, and called on the public to remain calm, support security efforts, and continue praying for the safe and quick return of all abducted individuals. The Diocese will provide more updates as verified information becomes available.

This abduction deepens concerns over the safety of schools across the country, coming only a few days after armed men kidnapped 25 students in Maga, Kebbi State, and other related incidents reported in the region.