The National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has said the Federal Government takes responsibility for the abduction of 265 students and teachers from St Mary Catholic School in Papairi, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.
During a visit to the school on Monday, Ribadu described the incident as a painful moment for the nation. “This is a very solemn and difficult moment for us, especially after hearing from some of the parents and all of you. However, we take responsibility because it is our duty to protect you,” he stated.
He conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s message of solidarity, noting that the President suspended his travel plans to prioritise the crisis. Ribadu assured parents that efforts to rescue the abducted children were being intensified, with support from international partners including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and other European countries.
“You are not alone. Many good people from all over the world are coming to support us… The whole world is coming together to stop and defeat this evil which has plagued Nigeria for two decades,” Ribadu added.
The NSA emphasised that the children would return safely, urging Nigerians to unite against insurgency and criminal groups. He pledged stronger security measures in the affected area, stressing that the government’s response would be firm and decisive.
“Evil people will always be around, but this thing they have done is what will change Nigeria for good,” he said.
Ribadu commended Bishop Bulus Yohanna of the Kontagora Diocese for his resilience and support during the crisis. Bishop Yohanna, in turn, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Ribadu for offering hope to the community.
The visit also featured a closed-door meeting after school officials and parents recounted how the abduction occurred. Ribadu was accompanied by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Bernard Doro; the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Oluwatosin Ajayi; and the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (Northern Nigeria), Rev. Joseph Hayab.
