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The atmosphere across Niger state shifted sharply on Monday as news broke that 100 abducted schoolchildren had been rescued weeks after their kidnapping from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri village. While relief filled the air for many, hundreds of parents remained in limbo, desperate for clarity about the fate of their children.
According to the Christian Association of Nigeria in Niger state, officials confirmed the rescue early Monday, marking a major breakthrough in one of the country’s biggest school abductions in recent years. More than 300 students and 12 staff members were taken on November 21, sparking nationwide outrage and renewed concern over worsening insecurity in northern Nigeria.
Despite the announcement, government authorities had yet to release full details on how the students were freed. Whether negotiations, ransom payments, or a military operation led to the rescue remains unclear.
Parents Still Waiting for Answers
For many families, the joyful news offered only partial comfort. Parents like Yunusa Kabukaya, whose 11 year old daughter Magret was among those abducted, said they first heard of the rescue through social media.
“Nobody has contacted me, but I’m desperate to know if my daughter is among the rescued students,” Kabukaya said, preparing for a seven hour journey from Rafin Tala to Minna, where the rescued children were expected to arrive later in the day.
Other parents shared similar fears. Dauda Gwanja, whose 15 year old child was kidnapped, said the waiting period had pushed his family to emotional breaking points.
“My wife has refused to eat since the incident,” he said. “We only know of the 100 students on the internet. We don’t know if our child is one of them.”
A Region Battling Rising Insecurity
School kidnappings have become a grim pattern in northern Nigeria, especially after the 2014 Chibok tragedy that shocked the world. Armed groups continue to target children for ransom, leaving entire communities traumatized and fearful.
In last month’s attack alone, about 50 students managed to escape within hours, but more than 150 others remain unaccounted for, raising concerns about their safety and the expanding reach of criminal gangs.
Strengthened International Cooperation
Amid the turmoil, a U.S. congressional delegation visited Nigeria on Monday to discuss security challenges and the protection of Christian communities. This came after U.S. President Donald Trump recently warned of potential military action over the treatment of Christians in the country.
Congressman Riley Moore welcomed the rescue of the 100 children, saying talks had focused on practical steps to improve security and prevent future attacks. A joint Nigeria U.S. task force is set to be created, signaling deeper cooperation against armed groups in the region.
Moore praised National Security Advisor Nuhu Ribadu for what he described as “a productive and positive conversation,” adding that both sides discussed concrete strategies aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and reducing violence in the northeast.
A Step Forward, but a Long Road Ahead
While the rescue represents a significant milestone, hundreds of families are still waiting for answers, and the broader issue of insecurity remains unresolved. For now, the joy of regained freedom for some children is tempered by the uncertainty surrounding others still missing.
The coming days will be crucial,both for reuniting families and for determining whether new security measures can meaningfully protect Nigeria’s schools from future attacks.
