Niger State, Nigeria | December 21, 2025
On November 21, 2025, armed men arrived at St. Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, Nigeria. They took 303 students and 12 teachers. The children ranged from ages 10 to 17.
For one month, families waited. Nigeria has seen many such abductions. Armed gangs operate across the north, targeting schools and travelers. Ransoms are demanded. Some children never return.
No group claimed responsibility. The government has not said whether ransom was paid. What matters: the children traveled to Minna, the state capital, to rejoin their parents. They will be home for Christmas.
All 303.