3 Months After Papiri Students Abduction, Niger Reopens Tertiary Institutions

Niger State government has reopened tertiary institutions in Niger North which were closed three months ago, following the abduction of staff and students of St. Mary Catholic School, Papiri, Agwara local government area.

LEADERSHIP Friday reports that the state government announced the closures of all schools including the tertiary institutions in Niger North as a proactive measure to avoid further abduction of students from the schools.

The commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Muhammad Yakubu Auna, disclosed that the governor granted the approval for the immediate reopening of Niger State Polytechnic, Zungeru and other institutions in Niger North.

Auna said, “This followed the directive of the Executive Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, for the reopening of all tertiary institutions in Niger North Senatorial Zone.”

He said accordingly, academic and administrative activities at Niger State Polytechnic, Zungeru, would resume for all new and returning students with the commencement of registration and lectures: Monday, 2nd March, 2026.

The commissioner urged all students to return promptly and in compliance with institutional guidelines while management and staff are directed to ensure full preparedness for a smooth and effective academic session.

He said the Ministry remained committed to sustaining academic excellence and ensuring stability across all tertiary institutions in the state.