The Niger State government has ordered the immediate closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools in the state following the kidnapping of students from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area.
Governor of Niger State, Umaru Bago made the announcement on Saturday after a security meeting with heads of relevant agencies.
“Governor Umaru Bago stated this shortly after the security meeting with heads of security agencies following the recent kidnapping of School children at St Mary’s Catholic School Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of the State,” a statement by Bologi Ibrahim, his chief press secretary, reads.
“Farmer Governor Bago said, additionally all Missionary, Islamic Schools and Federal Government Colleges have also been shut down until further notice.
“Additionally, all Tertiary Institutions in Niger North Senatorial District and other vulnerable areas in Niger East Senatorial District are to be closed down as well.”
He also described the abduction as “sad and unfortunate”, adding that efforts were being made to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and other victims.
On Friday, the governments of Katsina and Plateau states ordered the closure of schools in response to escalating banditry attacks targeting educational institutions.
In a similar move, the Federal Government directed the immediate shutdown of all 47 Unity Colleges across the country.
The directive, contained in a circular issued on Friday, cited “recent security challenges in some parts of the country and the need to prevent any security breaches.”
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