UN Condemns Niger School Abduction

The United Nations has condemned the abduction of students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Niger State, calling the attack a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers facing children in conflict-prone areas.

The incident happened on Friday in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, where gunmen seized 215 students and 12 teachers, according to the Christian Association of Nigeria. The attack came only days after schoolchildren were taken from another community in Kebbi, adding to rising fear across the region.

UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the abductions closely following those in Kebbi show how unsafe learning environments have become for many Nigerian children. He said the organisation stands with UNICEF and the UN humanitarian leadership in Nigeria in extending sympathy to affected families and calling for the immediate return of the abducted students.

The UN stressed that these repeated school attacks show why the Safe Schools Declaration must be fully implemented. The declaration outlines measures to protect schools, ensure they remain civilian spaces and allow students to learn without fear, even during conflict.

The broader crisis intensified earlier in the week when armed men attacked Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi, killing one teacher and abducting at least 25 students. That incident had already raised alarm among security officials and parents.

Following the latest abduction in Niger State, the Federal Government announced the closure of 41 Federal Unity Colleges. A circular from the Ministry of Education said the move was taken to prevent further attacks as the country confronts rising threats to schools.

The UN has urged all efforts to focus on securing the safe and quick return of the kidnapped children and teachers.