50 Abducted Niger School Students Escape from Kidnappers
At least 50 students kidnapped from St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State have reportedly escaped and reunited with their parents, bringing hope to families of the abducted pupils.
Recall that on November 21, 2025, armed bandits attacked the school, abducting 303 students and 12 teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 315.
The 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, confirmed the update in a statement issued by his media aide, Daniel Atori, in Minna.
Bishop Yohanna explained that the students escaped between Friday and Saturday but were unable to return to the school after fleeing. “As at Sunday, 23rd November 2025, we have received good news that fifty pupils have escaped and reunited with their parents. We confirmed this after contacting and visiting some parents,” the statement read.
He added that, as of now, 251 primary pupils, 14 secondary students, and 12 teachers remain with their abductors. Of the 430 pupils in the primary section, 377 are boarders and 53 are non-boarders.
“For the records, we now have Primary 251 pupils, 14 Secondary students and 12 teachers still with their abductors,” the statement reads.
” In the primary section out of the total number of 430 pupils we have in the school, 377 of them are boarders and the remaining 53 others are non boarders
“Currently, aside from the 50 pupils that escaped and have returned home, we have 141 pupils who were not carried away. As it stands now, we have 236 pupils, another 3 children who belong to our staff, 14 Secondary students making a total of 253 children including 12 members of staff with the abductors, ” the CAN chairman stated.
The CAN chairman urged the public to remain calm and prayerful, assuring continuous collaboration with security agencies, community leaders, government officials, and other relevant authorities to secure the safe return of all abductees.
“As much as we welcome the return of these 50 children with relief, I urge everyone to continue praying for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims,” Bishop Yohanna said.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
