Abuja: A day after armed men abducted more than 300 students and teachers from a school in Niger State, security forces continued their search on Sunday with no clear sign of the missing people. The attack on St Mary’s School in the Papiri community has become one of the biggest school kidnappings reported this year.

Officials say around 315 people were taken during the early morning raid on Friday. Security teams have expanded their operations into forest areas across Niger State and nearby regions, but authorities report that the kidnappers are moving quickly, making tracking difficult.

Families spent the whole weekend gathered near the school and local offices, hoping for any news. Many parents said they have not received information from the attackers or the government, leaving them anxious and frustrated. Community members have also joined the search in remote areas.

Following the attack, all schools in Niger State remain closed as a precaution. Some schools in neighbouring Kwara State also remain shut after a separate violent incident earlier in the week. Officials say the closures are temporary but necessary.

Security experts believe the kidnapping was likely carried out by armed groups known for carrying out abductions for ransom. No group has claimed responsibility so far. Analysts say schools are often targeted because they have limited protection and large numbers of children.

The federal government has condemned the attack and called it a serious threat to public safety. President Bola Tinubu has ordered a coordinated response and said rescuing the students is a top priority. Additional troops and surveillance teams have been deployed to support the search.

As the rescue effort moves into a second day, families say they desperately need clearer updates from authorities. Communities across Niger State remain tense, and many parents say they are anxiously waiting for the safe return of their children.