The United States has condemned the attacks on the Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, and St. Mary’s Catholic Schools in Papiri, Niger State, as well as the abduction of students from both institutions.
The U.S. described the escalating attacks on educational institutions as disturbing and unacceptable, urging the Nigerian Government to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and strengthen its security policies to protect schools in vulnerable communities.
In a statement issued on Monday through the Bureau of African Affairs, the U.S. urged the President Bola Tinubu–led administration to ensure that the perpetrators of the abductions of schoolchildren in both states are brought to justice.
“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,” it said.
“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.”
Recall that on November 17, armed men attacked the Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, killing the vice principal, Hassan Makuku, and taking 24 female students captive.
Similarly, on November 21, gunmen invaded St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, and kidnapped students and teachers.
