Northern Schools Begin Reopening Despite Kidnap Risks — Security Dilemma Continues

Nigeria has started reopening schools in parts of the northern region after prolonged closures triggered by mass kidnappings of students in late 2025. 

   After armed gangs abducted hundreds of pupils and teachers from St. Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State in November — one of the worst school abductions in recent years — schools across the north were shut indefinitely. The attack highlighted long-standing security weaknesses and revived fears of repeated strikes against educational institutions. 

     The federal government issued a directive allowing schools to resume academic activities, asserting that “enhanced security measures” were in place, though officials have not detailed specifics.

  In Kaduna State, students expressed mixed emotions — some eager to return, others anxious about safety. 

   Niger State and other high-risk zones have kept many schools closed due to ongoing threats.