By Rita Iliya
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has handed over 100 pupils of St. Mary Catholic School, Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger, who were abducted on Nov. 21, to the state government.
The handover was performed in Minna on Monday by Wing Cdr. Abdullahi Idi Hong, on behalf of the NSA.
Hong said the successful rescue followed weeks of intense, coordinated operations involving the Office of the NSA, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
He said the State Security Service played a “critical and physical role” in the operations that led to the safe return of the pupils, adding that the achievement reflected the commitment of the Federal government to secure all communities.
According to him, the office of the NSA has begun immediate short-term protective measures in high-risk areas, while working with state governments, traditional and religious institutions to develop long-term security frameworks.
He said the government would continue to pursue policies that restore confidence in the education sector, reopen schools safely and uphold the right of every Nigerian child to learn in a secure environment.
Responding, Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger, described the event as fundamental and important in the defining history of the state.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for providing the necessary support that led to the rescue of the children.
Bago also thanked the NSA, security agencies, development partners and citizens who prayed throughout the period of the abduction.
He expressed optimism that the remaining pupils still in captivity would be rescued soon.
The governor reassured parents and guardians that the rescued children would be reunited with their families after thorough medical checks.
He said the government was working with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to ensure the safe return of the pupils to their homes.
One of the pupils, Florence Michael, narrated that the abductors kept them in a bush near a river.
She said the captors gave them a trampoline to lie on and warned them against making any noise.
“They told us if we make noise, they would beat us and we would not go back home,” she said.
Florence appealed to the government to continue to protect children and ensure their safety in schools.(NAN)