Rep Garba Condemns Abduction of Schoolchildren in Niger

A member of the House of Representatives, Rep. Abdullahi Idris Garba, has expressed strong outrage over the abduction of pupils from St. Mary’s School in Papari community, located in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.

In a statement released on Friday, Rep. Garba, who heads the House Committee on Aviation, described the attack as distressing, cruel, and completely unacceptable. He noted that the continued assault on educational institutions threatens the country’s quest to secure a stable and promising future for its young people.

The incident in Papari mirrors the rising wave of school kidnappings witnessed across Niger State and the northern region, where criminal groups have increasingly targeted classrooms. Over the past few years, several large-scale abductions have disrupted academic calendars, traumatized families, and stretched security operations to their limits.

Although the government and security forces have introduced interventions such as the Safe Schools Programme, many rural learning centres remain exposed due to difficult terrain and inadequate security coverage. The latest attack has reignited demands for improved intelligence gathering, stronger protective measures for schools, and a more coordinated approach to tackling insecurity.

According to the statement, which was signed by his media aide, Mohammed Umar, the lawmaker representing Kontagora/Wushishi/Mariga/Masheg Federal Constituency voiced deep concern about the emotional and physical suffering the kidnapped girls may be enduring. He called on security agencies to launch a prompt, well-coordinated rescue operation to secure their release and apprehend those responsible.

“On behalf of my family and constituents, I extend my sincere condolences to the Government and people of Niger State, particularly the families of the abducted students. Please be assured of my steadfast support and solidarity in this challenging moment,” he said.

Rep. Garba offered prayers for the swift and safe return of the students and urged residents to remain vigilant while cooperating closely with security operatives to combat criminal elements in the area.