The Nigerian government successfully rescued 100 children abducted from a Catholic boarding school in Niger State last month, while authorities continue efforts to free another 150 students and 12 teachers still held captive.

The rescued children arrived at the Government House in Minna on December 8, 2025, transported in white buses and escorted by military vehicles and armored units, highlighting the scale of security operations.

Details of the Abduction

The children, aged 10 to 17, were among 303 students seized from St Mary’s Catholic School in the Papri community on November 21. Twelve teachers were also abducted. In the hours following the attack, about 50 students escaped, but the remaining students were taken by armed perpetrators whose identity has not been officially confirmed. Local sources have blamed armed gangs targeting schools for ransom across northern Nigeria.

Government Response and Safety Measures

Governor Mohammed Bago assured the public that the freed children would soon be reunited with their families after undergoing medical examinations by health professionals. He also urged continued prayers for the safe release of the remaining captives.

“To those who have been praying, please continue to pray. We hope to recover the remaining students who are still in captivity,” Bago said.

President Bola Tinubu praised the security agencies for their “steadfast work” and reaffirmed his directive that all abducted students and Nigerians must be rescued safely.

While official figures indicate 115 students and 12 teachers remain in captivity, some news outlets report the number could be as high as 165. Details regarding the circumstances of the rescue, including whether any ransom was paid, have not been disclosed.

Trauma and Support for Survivors

UNICEF has emphasized that the children will require mental health support after enduring weeks in captivity. One rescued student, Florence Michael, recounted the harsh conditions:

“They gave us tarpaulin, told us to lie down and sleep, and warned us not to make noise for them.”

Families in Papri were largely unaware of the children’s release until it was reported in the media, leaving parents in a state of anxiety and anticipation.

Rising Trend of Mass Abductions in Nigeria

The kidnapping at St Mary’s School is part of a troubling trend of mass abductions across northern Nigeria. Just days earlier, 25 schoolgirls were abducted from Kebbi State, and a church in Kwara State saw 38 worshippers abducted. All victims from the Kwara attack have since been freed.

The violence has fueled international attention, with US President Donald Trump claiming Christians in Nigeria are facing genocide and threatening potential military intervention. Nigerian authorities and analysts reject this characterization, noting that victims of abduction and violence include people of all faiths, including Muslims, Christians, and practitioners of traditional religions.

According to Pew Research Center estimates, Muslims make up 56% of Nigeria’s population, while Christians account for just over 43%. The ongoing conflict, largely in Nigeria’s northeast, has persisted for more than 15 years, involving multiple armed groups targeting communities, schools, and travelers for ransom.