Security authorities have successfully secured the release of the final 130 pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, bringing the total number of rescued children to 230, officials from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) confirmed on Sunday.

The abduction, which occurred on November 21, 2025, triggered nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over the safety of schools in Nigeria. The release of the final batch marks a major breakthrough for security agencies and brings relief to families and the wider community.

Earlier in December, 100 pupils and staff had already been freed, including 80 primary school children, 14 secondary students, 5 nursery pupils, and 1 staff member. The remaining children and staff, who had been held under dire conditions, are now safely back.

The successful rescue was attributed to sustained security pressure and coordinated efforts by the authorities. Public calls for stronger school protection and decisive measures against kidnappings have intensified in light of the incident.

St. Mary’s Catholic School is run by the OLA Sisters and owned by the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, part of the Kaduna Ecclesiastical Province.

Officials and religious leaders have expressed relief and gratitude for the safe return of the children, emphasizing the importance of ongoing vigilance to prevent future attacks.