Niger state shuts down primary, secondary schools over insecurity

 

The Niger state government has ordered the closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state following the abduction of pupils at St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara LGA.

Umaru Bago, governor of the state, announced the directive on Saturday after a security meeting with heads of security agencies.

“Governor Umaru Bago stated this shortly after the security meeting with heads of security agencies following the recent kidnapping of School children at St Mary’s Catholic School Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of the State,” a statement by Bologi Ibrahim, his chief press secretary, reads.

“Farmer Governor Bago said, additionally all Missionary, Islamic Schools and Federal Government Colleges have also been shut down until further notice.

“Additionally, all Tertiary Institutions in Niger North Senatorial District and other vulnerable areas in Niger East Senatorial District are to be closed down as well.”

The governor called on security agencies, civil society organisations, organised labour and religious leaders to focus on the rescue operation, saying the government remains committed to protecting lives and property.

Bago described the abduction as “sad and unfortunate”, adding that efforts were being made to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and other victims.

He said the number of abducted children had not been determined, explaining that the Department of State Services (DSS), the police and other security agencies are conducting a headcount to ascertain the exact figure.

On Friday, Katsina and Plateau ordered the closure of schools following rising banditry attacks on educational institutions in parts of the country.

Similarly, the federal government ordered the immediate closure of all 47 Unity Colleges nationwide.

The directive, issued in a circular released on Friday, cited “recent security challenges in some parts of the country and the need to prevent any security breaches”.