At least 50 kidnapped students of St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, have reportedly escaped from captivity and reunited with their families — bringing a sigh of relief amid the ongoing crisis.
The development was confirmed by the Niger State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, who is also the Proprietor of the school and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese. He released the update through a statement issued by his media aide, Daniel Atori, in Minna.
Background of the Abduction
On November 21, 2025, armed bandits invaded the school and abducted 303 students and 12 teachers, making a total of 315 victims — one of the largest school kidnappings recorded in the state.
How the Students Escaped
According to Bishop Yohanna, the students who escaped made their way out between Friday and Saturday, after which they went directly home instead of returning to the school premises. Verification was later done through visits and calls to parents.
“As at Sunday, November 23, 2025, we have received some good news as fifty pupils escaped and have reunited with their parents,” the statement confirmed.
Updated Breakdown of Victims
The CAN chairman also provided a detailed breakdown of those still in captivity:
- 251 primary school pupils
- 14 secondary school students
- 12 teachers
- 3 children belonging to staff members
In total, 253 individuals remain with the abductors.
He further explained that out of 430 pupils in the primary section, 377 are boarders, while others are day students. Aside from the 50 who escaped, 141 pupils were never taken during the attack.
Calls for Calm and Continued Prayers
Bishop Yohanna urged the public to remain calm, assuring that security agencies, community leaders, government authorities, and other stakeholders are actively working together to ensure the safe return of the remaining victims.
“As much as we welcome the escape of these 50 children with relief, we urge everyone to continue praying for the rescue of all remaining abductees,” he added.
Efforts to track and secure the release of the students and staff are ongoing.
