We Took Them!” – Bago Confesses To Abducting 315 Pupils In Niger Catholic School Attack

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has officially confirmed the abduction of 315 pupils and a teacher from St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The acknowledgment came on Friday during the inauguration of commissioners, elected local government chairmen, and their deputies, weeks after the governor had initially denied that any abduction occurred.

At the swearing-in ceremony, Bago called for a minute of silence in honor of two parents of the abducted children who reportedly died from shock.

“Three weeks ago, we woke up to the terrifying news of the abduction of our children and teachers. Thank God we have rescued 100, and we hope the remaining children are also rescued and reunited with their families soon,” the governor said.

He further pledged, “In this government, we will engage and appoint people from Papiri into key positions to ensure their voices are heard.”

Earlier, Governor Bago had claimed in a televised interview that no children had been kidnapped, asserting that attackers only fired gunshots to frighten the pupils before fleeing. He had stated, “The bandits only came to the school but did not abduct anyone,” suggesting that the children had run into the bush for safety.

However, official reports later confirmed that on November 21, 2025, armed terrorists attacked St Mary’s Catholic School, abducting 315 pupils and a teacher and taking them to an unknown forest location. While 50 pupils escaped after two days, federal authorities and security agencies rescued 100 children nearly two weeks later.

In November, Rev. John Hayab, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Northern Region and the FCT, disclosed that a parent had died of a heart attack after three of his children were among the abductees. Another parent reportedly died from shock, prompting urgent calls for psychological and humanitarian support for affected families.

Governor Bago emphasized inclusivity, promising to involve indigenes of Papiri in his administration to ensure their welfare is prioritized. “Let us put the old aside and embrace a new Niger. We want a new Niger where the son of a nobody can become somebody. It is time to retract our steps,” he said.

He also led prayers for peace and restoration in the state: “Oh God, we beseech You to rescue Niger State, rescue our children, and restore lasting peace. Redirect those who chose the wrong path, Lord.”

The Secretary to the State Government, Usman Abubakar, noted that the new appointees were selected based on competence and track record, urging them to focus on improving security, education, and healthcare.

The oath of office was administered by the Chief Judge of Niger State, Justice Halima Abdulmalik, who was represented by Justice Amina of Court 6, Minna.