Koko Maxwella 
ABUJA, Nigeria – All remaining students abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State regains freedom and is expected to arrive in Minna on Monday, marking the end of weeks of anxiety for families and the wider community.
The Bishop of Kontagora Diocese and Proprietor of St. Mary’s Schools, Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, confirms the development in a statement issued on Monday, saying Niger State Governor Umaru Bago personally informs him of the release of the children and their teachers.
According to the bishop, although the governor does not specify the exact number during the call, the freed victims are expected to arrive in Minna the same day and will be formally received by the governor at the Government House. “This is a huge relief to the parents and the Church. We thank God that the children are finally coming home,” Yohanna says.
The latest release follows earlier breakthroughs in the case. About 100 abducted students are earlier freed in Papiri and reunited with their families, while 50 others reportedly escape from captivity and return home safely on their own.
The arrival of the remaining 130 students confirms that all pupils taken during the November abduction have now regained freedom, bringing closure to a traumatic episode that draws national concern over school safety and insecurity.
Parents, church leaders and residents across Niger State express gratitude to the authorities and security agencies involved in securing the students’ release. Many describe the development as a collective relief after weeks of prayers, negotiations and uncertainty.
Officials say further details on the circumstances surrounding the release will be provided after the students’ arrival and official reception in Minna.
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Korede Abdullah 
Oluwatobi Adu