Niger State Government has formally received the 100 rescued schoolchildren of St. Mary Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area.
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Wing Commander Abdullahi, presented the children to Governor Umaru Bago during a brief ceremony at the Government House, Minna.
Ribadu explained that the rescue was the outcome of an intense, well-coordinated operation involving the Office of the NSA, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Armed Forces, and other security agencies over the past two weeks. He reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding communities nationwide.
“We are implementing immediate short-term protective measures in high-risk areas, while working with state governments, traditional, and religious leaders to build lasting, community-based security solutions,” he said.
“We will continue to pursue policies and operations that restore confidence, reopen schools safely, and ensure that every Nigerian child has the right to learn in safety,” he said.
Governor Umaru Bago expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the NSA, security agencies, and all stakeholders who contributed to the rescue efforts.
He reassured parents that the state government would continue working closely with the Federal Government and relevant authorities to secure the safe return of the remaining abducted children.
He added that the rescued children would be reunited with their families after undergoing medical examinations.
