By Awwal Umar Kontagora The Niger State Government has ordered the closure of all public and private primary and secondary schoo...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
The Niger State Government has ordered the closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state. Governor Umaru Bago announced the decision shortly after a security meeting with heads of security agencies, following the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren at St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area.
Governor Bago further directed the shutdown of all missionary and Islamic schools, as well as Federal Government Colleges operating within the state, until further notice. He also ordered the immediate closure of all tertiary institutions in Niger North Senatorial District and other vulnerable locations in Niger East Senatorial District.
The governor called on heads of security agencies, civil society organisations, organised labour and religious leaders to prioritize efforts toward the safe rescue of the abducted children. He assured that his administration remains committed to protecting the lives and property of citizens across the state.
Describing the incident as sad and unfortunate, Governor Bago said the government’s primary mission is to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped students and other victims in captivity. He explained that the exact number of abducted pupils from St. Mary’s Catholic School is yet to be determined, as the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police and other security agencies are currently conducting a headcount to ascertain the accurate figure.
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