US Slams School Abductions in Niger, Kebbi, Demands Justice, Stronger Protection

The United States has condemned the latest wave of school kidnappings in Niger and Kebbi States, calling the attacks “unacceptable” and insisting that those responsible must face justice.

In a statement released Monday on its X handle, the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs described the abductions of students and teachers as crimes that “must not go unpunished.” The bureau urged the Nigerian government to take decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice and to prevent further attacks on schools.

The U.S. government also called for stronger security measures to protect vulnerable communities—especially Christian populations that have increasingly come under threat from armed groups targeting schools, churches, and rural settlements.

The statement reads” , “The United States condemns the mass abduction of reportedly over 300 students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, Nigeria, and the kidnapping, just days before, of 25 schoolgirls from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State.

“Those responsible for these crimes must be swiftly captured and held accountable. The Nigerian government must act decisively and do more to protect Christians and ensure Nigerians can live, learn, and practice their religion freely without fear or terror.”

The U.S. condemnation comes amid a frightening escalation of school attacks in northern Nigeria. On November 17, armed men stormed Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, killing the vice principal, Hassan Makuku, and abducting at least 24 female students.

Just four days later, on November 21, another armed group raided St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, taking 303 students and 12 teachers.

Although early reports varied, the Christian Association of Nigeria later confirmed the figures after conducting a detailed census of missing individuals. Amid the chaos, fifty students managed to escape and reunite with their families.