U.S. Condemns Kidnappings of Nigerian Students

U.S. Condemns Kidnappings of Nigerian Students

The United States has condemned mass abductions of students in Niger and Kebbi states, calling on the Nigerian government to bring the perpetrators to justice and enhance security for vulnerable communities, including Christian populations.

In a statement released on Monday by the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs via its X platform, the U.S. described the attacks as unacceptable. “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,” the statement read.

The U.S. specifically referenced the kidnapping of over 300 students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, and the earlier abduction of 25 schoolgirls from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State.

These incidents mark a severe escalation in school-targeted violence, reminiscent of the 2014 Chibok girls’ abduction. In response, the Federal Government has initiated rescue operations, with President Bola Tinubu directing the Minister of State for Defence to relocate to Kebbi State to coordinate efforts.

The wave of attacks has prompted several state governments, including Niger, Katsina, Plateau, and Bauchi, to preemptively close numerous schools to safeguard students, underscoring the widespread security crisis.

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