NSA Hands Over Remaining 130 St Mary’s Catholic School Pupils and Teachers to Governor Bago

Nigeria’s National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has formally handed over the remaining 130 pupils and teachers abducted from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, to Governor Muhammad Umar Bago, marking a significant milestone in the rescue and recovery effort weeks after the mass kidnapping. The ceremony took place in Minna, where relieved parents, community leaders and security officials were present to witness the return of the children and educators who had been held captive since the attack on November 21, 2025, when armed assailants abducted more than 300 people from the school. (dailypost.ng)

Governor Bago thanked President Bola Tinubu and the federal government for the coordinated efforts that led to the safe release of the victims, emphasising that the return of the pupils and teachers brings immense relief to families who have endured weeks of anxiety and uncertainty. He commended the resilience of the children and the professionalism of security agencies involved in the rescue, noting that their return is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens. The governor also called for continued support to help families and communities cope and recover from the traumatic ordeal.

Ribadu, speaking at the handover, reaffirmed that government agencies worked tirelessly to secure the release of all abducted victims. He said federal security forces have remained engaged in ongoing operations to address kidnapping and banditry across the region and lauded the cooperation between federal and state authorities. Ribadu also noted that childhood education must be protected and that no effort will be spared to prevent future attacks on schools and communities.

Relief was palpable among parents and relatives as they embraced children and teachers who had been away for weeks. Many expressed heartfelt gratitude to rescuers and pleaded for strengthening intelligence and security measures to ensure such incidents do not recur. What do you think should be done to protect schools and students from kidnappings in Nigeria? Comment below and share your thoughts.

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