The National Security Adviser (NSA) has handed over the remaining 130 pupils and teachers of St Mary’s Catholic School to the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago. The victims were rescued after spending weeks in captivity following their abduction from the school. The handover marks a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity and school attacks across the country.

During the official presentation, the NSA praised the security agencies for their coordinated operations, intelligence gathering, and persistence, which led to the safe recovery of the victims. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting schools and ensuring that children can learn in a safe environment without fear.

Governor Bago expressed deep gratitude to the President, the NSA, and all security operatives involved in the rescue mission. He described the development as a huge relief to families and communities affected by the incident, adding that the state government would provide medical care, counselling, and rehabilitation support to help the victims recover from their ordeal.

The rescue has renewed calls for stronger security around schools, especially in vulnerable areas. Stakeholders believe sustained collaboration between federal and state authorities, alongside community support, remains critical to preventing future attacks and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s education system.