New Abduction Of Students Shakes Niger Community

The Niger State Government has confirmed that armed attackers seized students and staff of St Mary’s School in Agwara, leaving families and residents in shock.

The incident happened only days after a similar attack in Kebbi, raising fresh fears across the region.

Authorities say they are still working to determine how many people were taken. Security teams are on the ground, gathering details and coordinating early rescue efforts.

Officials explained that the attack occurred despite earlier intelligence warning of rising danger in parts of Niger North. Based on that alert, the government had stopped construction work and ordered all boarding schools in the area to shut down until the threat level dropped.

The government said the school reopened without informing authorities or getting clearance. This decision placed students and staff at risk, as the area was still under security watch based on recent intelligence reports.

Security agencies have launched a full search-and-rescue mission and an investigation aimed at locating the victims and tracking those behind the attack. The state government said it is in constant contact with security units and will share updates as new information comes in.

The government urged school owners and community leaders to follow all security notices strictly. It also called on residents to remain calm and support security agencies with any helpful information, stressing that the safety of children remains its top concern.