The Niger State Government has received the remaining 130 schoolchildren and teachers abducted from St. Mary Catholic School, Papiri, following their rescue by federal security agencies.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago received the victims at the Government House in Minna on Monday, describing their release as a major relief for the state, particularly given the young age of many of the children.
Governor Bago expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as decisive leadership, as well as to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Service Chiefs, and all security agencies involved in the rescue operation.
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He also commended traditional rulers, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and concerned citizens whose efforts contributed to the successful release of all the abducted victims from the school.
The governor disclosed that the rescued victims would undergo medical examinations and psychosocial support before being reunited with their families.
Speaking on behalf of the National Security Adviser, the National Coordinator of the Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Major-General Adamu Garba Laka, said the rescue was carried out following a directive from President Tinubu.
According to him, the operation involved intensive and coordinated efforts by the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with the Department of State Services, the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, other security agencies, and international partners.
Major-General Laka reaffirmed the commitment of the Office of the NSA to sustained collaboration with state governments and relevant stakeholders to develop lasting, community-based security solutions and to ensure the protection of every Nigerian child’s right to education.
The Papiri school abduction had sparked nationwide concern, with the successful rescue of all victims marking a significant security breakthrough.
