NSA HANDS OVER RESCUED PAPIRI PUPILS TO NIGER STATE GOVERNMENT
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) has handed over 100 rescued pupils of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, to the Niger State Government. The children were part of the over 300 students and staff kidnapped more than two weeks ago.
NSA Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Wing Commodore Abdullahi Idi Hong, said the rescue was achieved through coordinated intelligence efforts and assured continued measures to protect vulnerable communities. He stressed that insecurity must never deny children their right to education.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago thanked President Tinubu and the NSA for the operation, expressing hope that the remaining abducted pupils will also be rescued safely. A medical team has been deployed to assess the children’s health.
Some of the pupils and parents shared their relief, while UNICEF announced that a team of 40 experts will evaluate the children’s mental and emotional wellbeing.