All remaining students taken from a Catholic school in Nigeria’s Niger state last month have now been released, authorities have confirmed.
A presidential spokesperson announced the release of 130 more pupils, stating that no one from the abduction remains in captivity. The children are expected to be transferred to the state capital.
The incident began in November when a large group of students and staff were seized from their school in a rural area. While some managed to escape shortly after the attack, and about 100 others were freed earlier this month, the total number of those taken and the details of their captivity had remained unclear. Conflicting figures had been reported by different groups in the aftermath.
The circumstances of the abduction and the subsequent negotiations for the students’ release have not been disclosed. Such mass kidnappings have become a recurring challenge, highlighting ongoing security issues. In recent months, other incidents have included the abduction of Muslim schoolgirls, churchgoers, and other civilians.
The wave of kidnappings occurs amid broader international discussions regarding security and sectarian violence in the region. Some foreign voices have characterized the violence in stark terms, a framing that is disputed by the Nigerian government and independent observers.
The country continues to confront complex security threats, including militant activity and criminal gangs, with violence affecting communities across religious lines.