Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has described Niger State as the epicenter of Nigeria’s escalating security challenges, amid ongoing school abductions. He called for a unified and coordinated response to tackle the rising threats.

The IGP made the remarks during a visit to Governor Umaru Bago, following the abduction of pupils from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.

“The nation’s security issues are deep and worrying. The boldness and brazenness of criminal gangs are shocking. Niger State is critical to Nigeria and requires special focus,” Egbetokun said.

He confirmed that while 50 of the abducted children have been rescued, security agencies are deploying additional tactical resources and enhanced intelligence operations to recover the remaining pupils and teachers safely.

Governor Bago expressed gratitude to the IGP and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their swift response, highlighting that the recovery efforts have been effective and expressing confidence that all the children will be rescued.

“No life is worth missing. We remain optimistic about full recovery,” the governor said, urging citizens to remain calm, resolute, and prayerful as the nation confronts security challenges that threaten democracy, sovereignty, and national integrity.

The IGP’s visit underscores the government’s prioritization of protecting citizens and responding decisively to security threats, especially in regions vulnerable to abductions and violent criminal activity.