Mass Kidnapping Confirmed in Niger State
The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has confirmed that 315 students and teachers were abducted in Niger State, with the verified figure announced on Saturday, November 22, 2025. This shocking development comes amid growing security concerns across northern Nigeria.
Official Verification and Breakdown
According to Most Rev Bulus Yohanna, the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, the comprehensive verification exercise revealed that 303 students and 12 teachers were taken during the attack. The figure was confirmed through detailed census and verification processes conducted by church authorities.
Rev Yohanna released the official statement through his media aide, Daniel Atori, emphasizing that the numbers represent the final count after thorough investigation. The Catholic Diocese strongly denied receiving any government order to shut down the school prior to the incident, accusing authorities of attempting to shift blame for the security failure.
Government Response and Security Measures
The Niger State government expressed "deep sadness" over the kidnapping at St. Mary's School in Agwara Local Government Area. Secretary to the State Government Abubakar Usman stated that security agencies are actively assessing the situation and have commenced rescue operations.
Usman explained that the incident occurred despite earlier intelligence reports indicating increased security threats in the Niger North senatorial district. As a precautionary measure, the government had previously directed the suspension of construction activities and temporary closure of boarding schools within the affected area.
Security agencies have launched comprehensive investigation and rescue missions to ensure the safe return of all kidnapped individuals. The government maintains close communication with relevant security formations and has promised regular updates on the situation.
Wider Security Concerns Across Northern Nigeria
This mass kidnapping occurs amidst escalating security tensions across northern Nigeria. In a separate incident in Kebbi State, unknown gunmen attacked Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Danko district, abducting 25 girls during the early hours of Monday, November 17.
According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers invaded the school between 4 am and 5 am, firing shots into the air. Although police personnel stationed at the location engaged the intruders, the assailants successfully entered the compound and escaped with the students.
The consecutive school attacks have raised serious concerns about the safety of educational institutions in northern Nigeria, prompting calls for enhanced security measures and more effective protection strategies for vulnerable communities.
