All the schoolchildren abducted during the deadly raid on St. Mary’s Catholic Private Primary and Secondary School in Niger State have finally been released, bringing a traumatic month-long ordeal to a close.
The last batch of 115 students, who were held captive by armed bandits, regained their freedom on Friday, officials confirmed. With their release, the total number of rescued victims now stands at about 265, ending weeks of fear, uncertainty, and emotional distress for families and the wider community.
The mass abduction occurred in the early hours of November 21, 2025, when heavily armed gunmen stormed the boarding school in Papiri community, Agwara Local Government Area. In the attack, described as one of the largest school kidnappings in recent Nigerian history, the assailants carted away 303 students alongside 12 teachers.
In the immediate aftermath of the attack, about 50 students managed to escape on their own while fleeing the kidnappers. Days later, sustained pressure from security forces led to the release of 100 students on December 8, raising hopes that the remaining captives would soon return home.
The eventual rescue of the final group of 115 students marks a significant breakthrough for security agencies and underscores the impact of coordinated rescue operations and intelligence-led interventions. Families who had endured weeks of anguish were seen celebrating the return of their children, many of whom are expected to undergo medical checks and psychological support.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to strengthening school security and tackling the persistent threat of banditry, especially in rural communities. As the rescued students reunite with their loved ones, the incident once again highlights the urgent need for lasting solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges.
