Student kidnapped from school in Nigeria escapes as 24 remain missing

19 Nov 2025 • 12:02 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A schoolgirl abducted with 24 others from a boarding school in Kebbi state, Nigeria, has escaped and returned home safely.
  • The principal of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School confirmed the student's return late Monday, hours after the kidnapping.
  • Another student, not among the 25 confirmed abductees, also escaped shortly after the attack. The attack also resulted in the death of a staff member.
  • Security forces have intensified efforts to rescue the remaining girls, with Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff ordering "intelligence-driven operations" and a "relentless pursuit" of the abductors.
  • No group has claimed responsibility, but analysts suggest the abduction is likely by gangs targeting schools for ransom, a common issue in northern Nigeria linked to insecurity and corruption.

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