Over 200 Students and Teachers Abducted from Nigerian Catholic School

In the early hours of November 21, 2025, armed attackers stormed St. Mary's Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria, abducting over 200 students and teachers. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) reported that 215 pupils and 12 teachers were taken during the raid.

The assault occurred between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., causing significant distress within the school community. A security guard was reportedly shot during the incident.

Niger State Police Command confirmed the attack and stated that tactical police units and military forces have been deployed to search for the abducted individuals.

This kidnapping follows a series of similar incidents in the region. Earlier in the week, 25 schoolgirls were abducted from a boarding school in Kebbi State, and a church attack in Kwara State resulted in two deaths and multiple abductions.

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora condemned the attack, expressing deep concern for the safety of the kidnapped children and their families.

President Bola Tinubu has canceled planned international trips to address the escalating security challenges.

Authorities are investigating the incident and have urged the public to remain calm while security efforts are underway.