The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, Rep. Abdullahi Idris Garba, has issued a strong condemnation of the kidnapping of schoolchildren from St. Mary's School in Papari community, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State. He described the event as a tragic, senseless, and completely unacceptable act.
Lawmaker's Stern Condemnation and Calls for Action
In a statement released on Friday, 22 November 2025, Garba, who represents the Kontagora/Wushishi/Mariga/Mashegu Federal Constituency, expressed his profound concern. He stated that the persistent targeting of educational institutions by criminals presents a severe danger to Nigeria's educational framework and the security of children in vulnerable areas.
The lawmaker voiced deep worry over the emotional and physical suffering the abducted pupils are likely enduring. He urgently called on security agencies to launch a rapid and well-coordinated rescue operation to ensure the children are brought back to their families safely.
A Plea for National Strategy and Community Vigilance
Garba pressed the Federal Government and all security operatives to enhance intelligence gathering, improve collaboration, and deploy necessary resources to prevent further assaults on schools. He emphasized that the recurring abductions of schoolchildren across the nation require a renewed national approach.
This strategy, according to him, must prioritize school safety, encourage community vigilance, and promote intelligence-led policing to dismantle the criminal networks operating in the region. He made a direct appeal to communities within Niger State and the wider North to cooperate fully with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities and supporting operations aimed at rooting out criminal elements.
Safeguarding Schools as a Collective Responsibility
"Safeguarding schools must become a collective responsibility," Garba asserted. He highlighted that the psychological impact of such abductions extends far beyond the immediate victims, deeply affecting their families, communities, and the overall stability of the nation's education system.
The lawmaker further urged governments at all levels to invest more in securing rural schools. Key measures should include the provision of perimeter fencing, modern surveillance systems, and trained security personnel to deter future criminal attacks. He characterized the latest incident as another wake-up call for stronger synergy among security agencies and more proactive engagement with local leaders to prevent a recurrence.
Praying to Almighty Allah for the safe and swift return of the abducted children, Garba encouraged the affected families to remain hopeful as rescue efforts intensify. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting legislative actions and security initiatives focused on protecting children and restoring peace across communities in Niger State.
"On behalf of my family and constituents, I commiserate with the Government and people of Niger State, especially the families of the abducted students," he said. "I assure you of my unwavering support and solidarity during this trying time."
