Fifty Niger Schoolchildren Break Free From Kidnappers as Massive Abduction Crisis Deepens.

Fifty pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, have regained freedom after escaping from their captors, school authorities confirmed on Sunday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The children reportedly fled between Friday and Saturday but did not return to the school premises. Instead, each pupil either found their way home or was discovered in nearby communities. Their safe return was verified through direct contact and home visits conducted by school officials.

The incident occurred only days after armed men stormed the institution and kidnapped 303 pupils and staff members, sparking national outrage and renewed demands for enhanced security across educational facilities.

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, who also serves as the Catholic Bishop of the Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, confirmed the development in an electronically signed statement. He described the escape of the 50 pupils as a welcome relief but cautioned that the situation remains dire as many victims are still in captivity.

He explained that despite the latest update, 251 primary school pupils, 14 secondary school students and 12 teachers remain with the abductors. Providing further clarity, he noted that the primary section had 430 pupils in total, with 377 boarders and 53 day students. At the time of the attack, 141 pupils were not taken, while 50 have now escaped—leaving 236 pupils, three children belonging to staff members, 14 secondary school students and 12 staff members still being held, amounting to 253 people.

The Bishop appealed for calm and continued prayers, assuring that efforts are ongoing in collaboration with security agencies, community leaders and government authorities to secure the safe return of all remaining hostages. He expressed hope for a swift resolution and divine protection for the affected families and the wider community.