Approximately 100 schoolchildren abducted from a Catholic school in Niger State last month have been safely returned to state authorities. The handover occurred on Monday, a day after the authorities confirmed their release.
The children arrived at the Niger State Government House in white buses, accompanied by a dozen military vans and armoured vehicles. Many of the boys wore football jerseys, while the girls were dressed in long robes.
Despite the release, dozens of the 315 students and staff initially abducted are still missing. Fifty pupils managed to flee the attack shortly after it occurred. The identity of the kidnappers and the conditions of the release have not been disclosed.
Governor Umar Bago personally welcomed the children, shaking hands and leading them into a hall where the emir and other local officials were present to receive them. The ceremony aimed to offer reassurance to families and the wider community.
Reports indicate that most of the freed children are aged between 10 and 17 years, although the school accommodates pupils as young as nursery age. This has highlighted concerns about the safety of young students in remote areas.
Authorities are continuing investigations into the abduction and are yet to determine who was behind the attack. No group has claimed responsibility for the crime, leaving questions over the motives and coordination of the kidnappers.
Kidnappings for ransom have become a serious security issue in Nigeria, with mass abductions in November drawing national and international attention to the country’s persistent insecurity challenges.
While the release of these children is a relief, officials have stressed that much work remains to protect schools and ensure that children in rural communities can attend classes without fear of attack.
