In a moment of relief and celebration, all the remaining 115 students kidnapped from St. Mary’s Catholic Private Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara LGA of Niger State, have regained their freedom.
This final release brings the total number of rescued children to approximately 265, effectively marking the end of a harrowing month-long ordeal that began on November 21, 2025, when armed gunmen stormed the school and abducted 303 students and 12 teachers.
About 50 students had earlier escaped shortly after the abduction, and 100 more were released on December 8, following coordinated security operations.
Authorities have confirmed the development, calling it a major victory for the nation’s security forces and a source of joy for the affected families.
Details about the conditions of the release and the current status of the 12 abducted teachers are still being awaited.
