IGP Vows Safe Rescue of Remaining St. Mary’s Students in Niger, Calls for United Front Against Insecurity

Minna, Niger State — The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has assured that the Nigeria Police Force will safely rescue the remaining students and staff abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area. He also called for a unified national effort to tackle rising insecurity.

Egbetokun made the pledge during a courtesy visit to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago in Minna on Tuesday, following the abduction that occurred last Friday.

Describing the incident as “troubling and heartbreaking,” the IGP highlighted the urgent need for coordinated security responses in Niger State, which he described as being at the center of evolving security threats.

“Niger State is too important to Nigeria not to receive the priority attention it deserves. The force has deployed additional tactical assets and expanded intelligence platforms to ensure the safe recovery of the remaining students and staff. We will rescue them unhurt,” Egbetokun stated. He also confirmed that 50 of the abducted children have already been recovered.

The IGP commended the support of the state government, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders, urging continued collaboration to combat criminal activities. “The Nigeria Police Force will not allow criminal elements to succeed in their cruel agenda,” he affirmed.

Governor Bago expressed gratitude to the IGP and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the swift response in deploying a rescue team. He also lauded the efforts of other security agencies involved and stressed the importance of working together with all stakeholders to ensure the safe return of the abducted children.

The governor called on the public to remain calm, resilient, and prayerful, warning that Nigeria’s democracy, sovereignty, and national integrity are under threat. He emphasized the need for collective action to safeguard the nation and restore its path to prosperity.