Catholic Diocese Condemns Midnight Attack, Abductions at Niger School
The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has strongly condemned the armed attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, where students and teachers were reportedly abducted in the early hours of Friday.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Fr. Jatau Joseph, the Diocese said the attackers stormed 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 assault and voiced deep worry for the abducted children, staff, and their families. It noted that security agencies were immediately notified and have commenced coordinated operations to ensure the victims’ safe rescue.
The Bishop assured the public that the Diocese is working closely with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities to facilitate the victims’ secure return.
The Diocese appealed for calm, urged residents to support the ongoing rescue efforts, and called on Nigerians to pray for the swift release of those taken. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children and pledged to share updates as verified information emerges.
“May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect His people from all danger,” the statement added.
The attack occurred just days after a similar incident in Maga, Kebbi State, where 25 students were abducted, heightening fears over rising insecurity in schools across the northern region. In Kwara State, more than 50 schools were shut down on Thursday following bandit incursions.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has cancelled his scheduled trips to South Africa and Angola in order to coordinate the federal government’s response to the escalating security crisis.
