THIS DAWN — Nigeria is celebrating a major breakthrough tonight as the remaining 130 schoolchildren abducted by terrorists from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, have been released.
The development brings the total number of freed students to 230, following the earlier release of 100 children.
Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga confirmed the news in a statement posted on X.
Onanuga noted that the children will arrive in Minna on Monday to reunite with their families in time for Christmas.
“The freedom of the schoolchildren followed a military‑intelligence driven operation,” Onanuga said.
He underscored the role of coordinated security efforts in securing their release.
Freed Schoolchildren a National Relief
The abduction, which occurred on November 21, had plunged the nation into grief and renewed concerns about the safety of schools in northern Nigeria.
Parents and communities had endured weeks of anguish, with many fearing for the lives of their children.
The release marks a significant relief for families and a symbolic victory for Nigeria’s security forces.
News of the release has sparked jubilation across Niger State and beyond.
Families are preparing to welcome their children home, with many describing the timing as a “Christmas miracle.”
Religious and community leaders have praised the resilience of the affected families and commended the security agencies for their efforts.
Security Challenges Persist
While the release is a major success, analysts caution that the incident highlights Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with terrorism and banditry.
Schools in rural areas remain vulnerable, and calls are growing for stronger measures to protect children and ensure such tragedies do not recur.
As the freed students prepare to reunite with their parents, the nation reflects on the ordeal and the urgent need to safeguard education.
For now, however, the focus is on celebration: 230 children are free, families are whole again.
An observer noted that Christmas in Niger State will be marked by joy rather than sorrow.
