The Niger State Caucus in the National Assembly has issued a strong condemnation of the recent attack on St. Mary's Catholic School in Agwara Local Government Area, where armed terrorists abducted dozens of pupils, teachers, and a security guard.
Lawmakers Express Profound Sorrow Over Attack
In a joint statement released in Abuja on 22 November 2025, the lawmakers described the incident with deep concern and profound sorrow. They characterized the assault as another grim reminder of the deepening insecurity crisis ravaging Niger State and northern Nigeria as a whole.
The attack has triggered nationwide outrage, with the number of missing children continuing to rise as fresh searches and intensified rescue operations proceed. The caucus declared full solidarity with Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Niger State Government, the families of the abducted children, and the traumatized Agwara community.
Call for Decisive Security Measures
The lawmakers emphasized that no child in Niger State should be left at the mercy of criminal elements. They warned that this incident highlights the worsening security situation across the state, which ranges from banditry and mass kidnappings to terrorism and communal conflicts.
They stated that this situation mirrors the broader national security crisis facing Nigeria and requires decisive, coordinated, and sustained action across all levels of government. The caucus specifically called for:
- Enhanced military deployment to flashpoint communities like Agwara
- Strengthened intelligence gathering capabilities
- Improved inter-agency collaboration
- Increased Federal Government support to complement Governor Bago's efforts
Commitment to Legislative Action and Support
Reaffirming their commitment as representatives of Niger State in both the Senate and House of Representatives, the lawmakers pledged to work closely with security agencies to ensure the safe and immediate rescue of all abducted students and staff.
They promised to continue engaging federal authorities to prioritize Niger State's security needs, advocate for increased funding and personnel for security agencies, and advance legislative reforms aimed at strengthening national security.
The statement was jointly signed by Senators Mohammed Sani Musa, Abubakar Sani Bello, and Peter A. Jiya, alongside House members Abdullahi Idris Garba, Shehu Saleh Rijau, Abdullahi Mamudu, Saidu Musa Abdullahi, Jafaru Mohammed, Yusuf Kure Baraje, Joshua Audu Gana, Ismaila Musa Modibbo, Adamu Tanko, and Abubakar Abdu Buba.
The lawmakers urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while rescue efforts continue and called on security agencies to intensify operations to ensure the safe return of the abducted students and the arrest of the perpetrators. They concluded with prayers for the protection of Niger State, comfort for affected families, and lasting peace across the region.
