By Editorial Staff 
KONTAGORA | NOV 21, 2025: The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has confirmed the abduction of an unspecified number of students and staff members of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri community, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, by terrorists.
In a letter signed by the Diocesan Secretary, Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph, and seen by Edubase Nigeria, it was gathered that the terrorists spent about two hours on the school compound to perpetrate the attack.
The letter read:
“This is to inform us that armed attackers invaded St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, in the early hours of 21st November 2025, abducting some pupils, students, teachers, and a security personnel who was badly shot. The incident occurred between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., causing fear and distress within the school community.
“The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora strongly condemns the attack and expresses deep concern for the safety of the kidnapped children and their families. Security agencies were immediately informed and have begun coordinated efforts to ensure the safe rescue and return of the victims.
“The Diocese is actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities, and calls on the public to support security efforts and continue praying for the safe and quick return of all abducted.”
Meanwhile, the actual number of kidnapped children is still unknown at the time of this report, but there are unconfirmed reports that about 100 students may have been taken by the terror group.
The kidnap happened less than five days after a similar abduction of 25 schoolchildren occurred in Kebbi State, who are still with their captors at the time of publication.
Terrorists in recent times have renewed their attacks on schools and churches across Nigeria. In Kwara State, terrorists have sacked villages and towns, leading to the closure of over 50 schools by the state government.
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