The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has condemned the attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, where armed men reportedly abducted students, teachers, in the early hours of Friday.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Fr. Jatau Joseph, the Diocese said the assailants invaded the school at midnight, during which a security personnel was shot and several members of the school community were taken away.
The statement read, “This is to inform us that armed attackers invaded St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, in the early hours of 21st November 2025, abducting some pupils, students, teachers, and a security personnel who was badly shot.
“The incident occurred between 1:00 am and 3:00 am, causing fear and distress within the school community.”
The Diocese condemned the attack and expressed deep concern for the safety of the kidnapped children and their families.
It said security agencies were immediately informed and have begun coordinated efforts to ensure the safe rescue and return of the victims.
The Bishop assured the public that the Diocese is actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities to secure the victims’ safe return.
The Diocese appealed for calm, urged the public to support ongoing security operations, and called on everyone to pray for the safe and quick rescue of those abducted.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of children and said further updates would be provided as verified information becomes available.
“May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect His people from all danger,” the statement added.
The incident comes days after a similar attack in Maga, Kebbi State, where 25 students were seized, raising concerns about the increasing insecurity in schools across the region.
In Kwara State, over 50 schools were shut down on Thursday following bandit attacks.
President Bola Tinubu cancelled planned trips to South Africa and Angola to coordinate the government’s response to the worsening security situation.
