‘School Has Ended for Me’ — Student Who Escaped Niger School Attack Recounts Ordeal!

‘School Has Ended for Me’ — Student Who Escaped Niger School Attack Recounts Ordeal!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

A student who escaped a violent school attack in Niger State says he will never return to school — traumatised by the horrors of abduction and near‑death — his voice trembling as he described the night he fled for his life.

“School has ended for me,” the 13‑year‑old, identified as Stephen Samuel, declared. “What they did that night … I don’t want to see another classroom again.” [1]

What Happened

• On November 21, 2025, armed bandits raided St. Mary’s Private Catholic School, in Papiri, Niger State — one of the largest school kidnappings in recent memory. Dozens of students and staff were abducted, while some managed to flee in the chaos. [2]
• Samuel was among those who escaped. In a vivid retelling, he said gunmen fired indiscriminately, packed students into vehicles, and threatened those who tried to run — but he and a friend hid until it was safe to flee. [1]

Aftermath and Trauma

• According to Samuel, the memory of screams, gunfire, and fleeing classmates will haunt him forever. He said he cannot imagine returning to any school after what he saw. [1]
• His parents, relatives, and neighbours remain deeply shaken. Some students who escaped are receiving counselling, but many families say hope is fading for those still missing. [2]

Broader Implications

• This case highlights the growing toll of banditry and terrorism on Nigeria’s education sector. Frequent attacks on schools are forcing children — and their families — to question whether education is still worth the risk. [3]
• Security experts argue that until schools are guaranteed safety, many students — especially survivors like Samuel — may abandon their education altogether, jeopardizing their future and the progress of entire communities. What to Watch
• Whether authorities will step up protection for schools in vulnerable areas, including permanent deployments, surveillance, and community‑based early‑warning systems.
• Mental‑health support and rehabilitation for rescued students and communities traumatised by repeated attacks.
• Long‑term effects on school enrollment and local education outcomes in states frequently targeted by kidnappers and bandits.

Citations:

1. IntelRegion Media & Tech: www.intelregion.com/news/student-who-escaped-after-niger-school-attack-recounts-ordeal?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. ICIR News: www.icirnigeria.org/tears-in-papiri-st-marys-school-abduction-throws-families-into-anguish/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. Le Monde.fr: www.lemonde.fr/en/le-monde-africa/article/2025/11/24/in-nigeria-repeated-kidnappings-put-the-government-under-pressure_6747764_124.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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