Nigeria Secures Release of All 130 Remaining Children Kidnapped from Catholic School

Nigerian authorities have announced the release of the remaining 130 children and staff kidnapped from a Catholic boarding school in the country’s central Niger state, bringing an end to one of Nigeria’s most serious mass abductions in recent years.

The students were taken from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri on November 21, when more than 250 pupils and staff were abducted in a coordinated night-time attack. Earlier this month, around 100 of those held captive were released, while others had reportedly escaped during the initial assault.

In a statement, the federal government described the latest development as a “moment of triumph and relief,” confirming that “not a single pupil is left in captivity.” Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said the total number of freed students now stands at 230.

Authorities have not disclosed how the latest release was secured, nor whether any ransom was paid. Nigerian officials have previously declined to reveal operational details, citing security concerns and the need to protect ongoing rescue efforts.

Photographs released by the presidency showed children smiling and waving following their release. The students are expected to arrive in the Niger state capital, Minna, on Monday for medical checks and reunification with their families.

The kidnapping has once again highlighted Nigeria’s growing crisis of mass abductions, particularly targeting schools and places of worship in the north and central regions. In recent weeks, similar attacks have occurred in neighboring states, including Kwara and Kebbi, where dozens were abducted from churches and schools before later being freed.

Analysts say most such kidnappings are carried out by criminal gangs motivated by ransom demands, though authorities have not publicly identified those responsible for the Papiri attack.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed to strengthen security around schools, saying his government will continue working with state authorities to ensure safer learning environments for children across the country.