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Schools in Niger state set to reopen after security review
Nigerian authorities announced that schools in Niger state will resume operations on 12 January, following a mass kidnapping in November that led to widespread closures. The decision applies only to institutions in areas deemed "safe and secure" after security assessments, the state's education ministry stated.
Background: November abduction and rescue
In one of Nigeria's most severe school abductions, over 250 students and staff were kidnapped from St Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, western Nigeria. Officials confirmed all hostages were freed just before Christmas, though details of their release-including whether a ransom was paid-remain undisclosed.
Security concerns persist amid rising abductions
Armed groups, locally referred to as "bandits," have escalated attacks in Nigeria's western and central regions, targeting schools and places of worship. The government recently classified these groups as terrorists, though reports suggest ransom payments-illegal under Nigerian law-continue.
Since 2014, when 276 girls were abducted in Chibok, over 1,500 children have been kidnapped from schools nationwide.
Reopening plans and safety measures
The education ministry will release a list of approved schools, while those in "unsafe or insecure areas" will remain closed pending further security evaluations. Reopening schools must register all returning students and submit data to authorities within a week. Local officials have also been instructed to deploy adequate security around school premises.
Fresh violence underscores ongoing risks
Just one day after the reopening announcement, gunmen attacked Kasuwan-Daji village in Niger state, killing at least 30 people and abducting others. Witnesses reported attackers burning the local market and looting shops before tying up residents and attacking them with knives.
"They are hiding, too afraid to talk. They fear retaliation if they speak out," said Abdullahi Rofia of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency.
Abdullahi Rofia, Niger State Emergency Management Agency
