100 Nigerian Schoolchildren Back Home After Kidnapping

One hundred Nigerian schoolchildren abducted from a Catholic boarding school in Niger State have been released and reunited with their families, bringing a moment of relief in a country repeatedly shaken by mass school kidnappings.

The Abduction

The attack occurred on 21 November 2025 when armed men stormed St. Mary’s Catholic School in the Papiri community. More than 300 children and 12 staff members were taken, while dozens of students managed to escape during the chaos.

The incident sparked nationwide concern, as it echoed previous mass abductions in northern Nigeria where schools have increasingly become targets for criminal gangs seeking ransom.

The Release

After weeks of coordinated security operations, the government confirmed the release of 100 children. They were transported to the state capital, where authorities received them in an emotional ceremony attended by families, community leaders and security officials.

The children, aged 10 to 17, appeared tired and shaken but stable. Medical teams began health checks immediately, and plans were put in place for psychological support to help them recover from trauma.

Parents broke down in tears of relief as they reunited with their children, though the joy was mixed with worry for those still held captive.

Many Still Missing

Despite the successful rescue, more than 250 children and several staff members remain in captivity. Security forces continue operations to locate and bring them home safely.

Officials have not disclosed details of how the release was secured, leaving many questions unanswered. Families are still demanding clearer communication and consistent updates from the authorities.

Nigeria’s Ongoing Kidnapping Crisis

The abduction in Niger State is part of a wider trend of mass kidnappings that has destabilised many rural communities. Criminal armed groups, commonly referred to as bandits, have repeatedly attacked schools due to the perceived ease of targeting children and negotiating ransoms.

The recurring incidents have made parents fearful and caused temporary closures of several schools across northern states.

Government Response

The federal government has vowed to strengthen school security and prevent future attacks. Security agencies have been deployed to high-risk zones, while state officials are reviewing strategies for protecting students in rural areas.

Leaders emphasised that rescuing the remaining captives is now a top priority and called for public support and patience as operations continue.

What Happens Next

Experts say urgent measures are needed to prevent further attacks, including:

• Better security around schools
• Rapid-response units in vulnerable communities
• Improved intelligence gathering
• Counselling services for rescued children
• Stronger community-security collaboration

For now, the return of the 100 freed pupils brings hope — but also a reminder that Nigeria must confront the root causes of insecurity to ensure children can learn without fear.