Gov Bago orders shutdown of all Primary, Secondary Schools after mass abduction

The Niger State Government has announced the immediate closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools following the recent abduction of schoolchildren from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.

Governor Umar Mohammed Bago disclosed the decision shortly after a security meeting with heads of security agencies. He said that all Missionary and Islamic schools, as well as Federal Government Colleges—including FGC Minna—have been shut down until further notice.

According to the governor, tertiary institutions will remain open except those located in vulnerable areas within Niger North and Niger East Senatorial Districts.

Governor Bago urged security agencies, civil society organisations, labour unions and religious leaders to prioritise ongoing rescue efforts. He assured residents that the state government remains committed to protecting lives and property.

Describing the abduction as sad and unfortunate, the governor said the primary focus now is ensuring the safe rescue of the kidnapped children and other victims in captivity. He added that the exact number of abducted students from St. Mary’s Catholic School was yet to be confirmed, as the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police and other security agencies were already conducting a headcount.