Abubakar Momoh Celebrates Rescue of 100 Abducted Niger Schoolchildren, Calls It “A Powerful Victory for Hope”

Abubakar Momoh Applauds Rescue of 100 Abducted Niger Schoolchildren, Urges Sustained Efforts for Those Still in Captivity....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Nigeria witnessed a significant breakthrough yesterday as the Federal Government secured the rescue of 100 schoolchildren abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.

Reacting to the development, the Minister of Regional Development,Engr  Abubakar Momoh FNSE , described the rescue as “a powerful victory for hope and a testament to the unwavering commitment to safeguard Nigeria’s future.”

Momoh praised the Federal Government for this major step and commended the Niger State Government for its cooperation, community mobilisation, and steadfast coordination throughout the crisis. He also sympathised with families who endured weeks of fear since the attackers first abducted over 300 pupils and staff from the school.

He noted, however, that while the return of 100 children is deeply heartening, more than 150 pupils and several staff members remain in captivity, stressing that the nation must remain united and determined until every single child is safely reunited with their families.

The Minister emphasised that the Ministry of Regional Development will continue supporting affected communities through education-focused infrastructure, improved learning environments, and regional development initiatives aimed at strengthening resilience in vulnerable areas. He highlighted the need for:

• better-equipped school facilities
• improved access to learning materials
• stronger community-based support
• targeted development programs that uplift at-risk regions

According to Momoh, long-term national stability is anchored on development. He noted that when communities have functional schools, good infrastructure, and empowered families, they are better positioned to withstand disruptions and recover from crises.

He reaffirmed that the Ministry will deepen collaboration with the regional development commissions to ensure that schools, especially in underserved areas, receive the infrastructural upgrades and amenities they urgently need.

As families celebrate the safe return of the rescued children, Momoh urged Nigerians to keep the remaining abducted pupils and staff in their prayers, calling for patience, unity, and continued support until the ordeal is fully resolved.