FG denies paying ransom for Niger schoolchildren

The Federal Government has denied claims that it paid a ransom to kidnappers to secure the release of schoolchildren abducted in Niger State.

In a statement on Tuesday, signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government described the allegations as “completely false and baseless,” saying they undermine the professionalism and sacrifices of Nigeria’s security forces.

“The attention of the Federal Government of Nigeria has been drawn to a publication circulating in the media, attributed to international wire services, alleging that the Nigerian Government paid a ‘huge’ ransom, including the release of militant commanders, to secure the freedom of the schoolchildren abducted from St. Mary’s boarding school in Niger State,” the statement said.

It added, “These allegations constitute a disservice to the professionalism and integrity of Nigeria’s security forces and the sacrifices they make daily. While we respect the freedom of the press, we firmly reject a narrative built on shadowy, unnamed sources seeking to undermine the credibility of a sovereign government acting within its laws. For the avoidance of doubt, no ransom was paid, and no militant commanders were freed.”

The statement noted that the report relied solely on anonymous “intelligence sources” and individuals “familiar with the talks,” contradicting official denials from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the National Assembly leadership.

“The report itself reveals contradictions that expose its speculative character, presenting sharply conflicting accounts regarding the alleged ransom,” the statement continued. “The assertion that ransom was delivered by helicopter to insurgents, with cross-border confirmation of receipt, is fiction. The DSS has formally dismissed this claim as fake and laughable.”

The government emphasized that the successful rescue of the pupils, without casualties, was achieved through professional intelligence and operational precision, not ransom. It urged the media to verify facts before publishing reports that could embolden criminals or undermine troop morale.

“Nigeria is confronting a structured, profit-driven criminal enterprise. The Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to security,” the statement concluded.