Niger State Government has ordered the closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state. Governor Bago announced this decision shortly after a security meeting with heads of security agencies, following the recent kidnapping of school children at St Mary’s Catholic School Papiri in Agwara Local Government Area.
He said all missionary and Islamic schools, as well as Federal Government Colleges including FGC Minna, have also been shut down until further notice. Tertiary institutions are not affected except those located in what he described as defined vulnerable areas in Niger North and East Senatorial Districts.
Governor Bago called on security agencies, civil society groups, organised labour and religious leaders to focus on the rescue efforts. He stated that the government will continue to protect the lives and property of its citizens.
Describing the incident as sad and unfortunate, the governor said the main goal now is to ensure that the kidnapped children and other victims are rescued safely.
According to him, the exact number of children kidnapped from St Mary’s Catholic School has not been confirmed. He explained that the Department of State Service, the Nigeria Police and other security agencies are currently conducting a headcount to determine the actual figure.
