Terrorists have reportedly abducted students and teachers at St. Mary’s School, a Catholic institution located in the Papiri community of Agwara Local Government Area, Niger State. The incident occurred around 2 AM on November 21, 2025.

Alhaji Abubakar Usman, the Secretary to the Niger State Government, confirmed the abduction, noting that the precise number of pupils taken is still unverified as security agencies are assessing the situation.

“Nobody can confirm the exact number of abducted pupils for now,” Usman stated. The Niger State Police Commissioner, Adamu Abdullahi Ellema, also affirmed the incident, indicating that tactical police units, military components, and other security forces have mobilized to the area to conduct search-and-rescue operations.

Despite prior intelligence suggesting an increased threat level in parts of Niger’s North Senatorial District, the attack occurred without prior warning. In response, the state government has suspended all construction activities in the area and temporarily closed all boarding schools as a precautionary measure.

Ahmed Abdullahi Rofia, the Head of the Department of Disaster and Relief for Agwara Local Government, also confirmed the incident, stating that the exact number of students and staff abducted is being verified.

Spokesperson for the Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, indicated that more details would be made available later.