An unknown number of students and staff have been abducted by armed men from a Catholic school in central Nigeria, in what has become the second school kidnapping in less than a week.
The latest attack targeted St Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State, where authorities had already ordered the temporary closure of all boarding schools following escalating security threats.
Although details remain unclear, residents fear that close to 100 students and staff may have been taken away during the early-morning raid.
The incident follows a renewed wave of attacks by armed groups across the region, including the abduction of 25 schoolgirls on Monday from a boarding school in neighbouring Kebbi State.
Police confirmed that armed men, known as bandits, stormed St Mary’s School around 02:00 local time (01:00 GMT) on Friday and seized an unconfirmed number of students from their hostel.
In a statement, Niger State authorities said, “The exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation.”
Reaction by Diocese of Kontagora
The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has confirmed that armed attackers raided St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, in the early hours of November 21, 2025, abducting pupils, students, teachers, and a security guard.
According to the church’s official statement, the attack happened “between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m.,” causing fear and distress within the school community.”
The Diocese also reported that a security personnel was badly shot during the incident.
The Diocese condemned the assault, expressing “deep concern for the safety of the kidnapped children and their families.”
It added that security agencies were immediately alerted and “have begun coordinated efforts to ensure the safe rescue and return of the victims.”
The Bishop reassured the public that the Diocese is working closely with security agencies, community leaders, and government officials.
The church urged the public to stay calm and cooperate with authorities, saying it remains committed to protecting children.
“The Diocese called on the public to remain calm, support security efforts, and continue praying for the safe and quick return of all abducted,” the statement read.
It also promised to release more updates as verified information becomes available.
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