Nigeria: Gunmen abduct 23 children, 15 pupils are rescued

Nigerian security forces have rescued 15 pupils after gunmen abducted 23 children and the wife of a school proprietor during an attack on an unregistered orphanage and school in Kogi State.

The assault occurred late Saturday, with attackers targeting the facility and taking multiple victims. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to secure the release of those still in captivity.

Kingsley Femi Fanwo confirmed the rescue of 15 pupils and said security agencies are intensifying operations to locate the remaining abductees.

School kidnappings remain widespread across Nigeria, driven by weak security and ransom demands by armed groups. Despite repeated government assurances, mass abductions continue to disrupt education, commerce and travel, raising concerns about the effectiveness of efforts to curb the threat.