Prof. Nuhu Tachi expresses solidarity with the Niger government following the abduction of St. Mary’s Students.
The Executive Director of Finance at the North Central Development Commission (NCDC), Prof. Muhammad Bashar Nuhu Tachi, has conveyed his deep sympathy to Niger State Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, and the residents of Agwara Local Government Area in the wake of the recent abduction of students and staff from St. Mary’s School, Papiri.
In a formal statement issued on Saturday, Prof. Tachi characterized the incident as “a tragic and profoundly distressing event that threatens our shared commitment to education, safety, and community stability.”
He noted that such incidents are among the most painful experiences any society can face, stressing that they undermine efforts to advance education within the state.
A former Commissioner for Tertiary Education in Niger State, the NCDC Executive Director praised the swift response of the state government, highlighting that coordinated actions showcase a strong resolve to safeguard all citizens, especially vulnerable students.
He called on security agencies to intensify their efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
Prof. Tachi extended condolences to the Chairman of Agwara Local Government, Hon. Iliyasu Zakari Jikantoro, traditional leaders, and affected families, recognizing the emotional toll on the community. He urged calm and unity, emphasizing collective resilience and cooperation during such challenging times.
Furthermore, he advocated for increased community vigilance and closer collaboration between security forces, school authorities, and local stakeholders to prevent similar incidents.
He highlighted the importance of improved information sharing, community policing, and early warning systems as vital tools for safeguarding rural communities and educational institutions.
Reiterating the NCDC’s commitment, Prof. Tachi affirmed that development efforts cannot succeed in an environment of fear or instability.
He assured ongoing cooperation with the Niger state government and relevant authorities to reinforce measures that protect schools and ensure the safety of learners across the state.
He prayed for the swift rescue of the students and offering comfort to their families, expressing hope that combined efforts by government agencies, community leaders, and security personnel will yield a positive outcome.
