The Federal Government has strongly denied allegations in an investigative report by global news agency AFP that it secretly paid billions of naira in ransom to Boko Haram terrorists to secure the release of nearly 230 pupils and staff abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic boarding school in Papiri, Niger State, in November 2025.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris described the claims as “completely false and baseless,” accusing the report of relying on unnamed, unverifiable sources while ignoring official denials.
“For the avoidance of doubt, no ransom was paid, and no militant commanders were freed,” Idris stated.
He said the allegations were contradicted by clear, on-the-record statements from key security institutions, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the leadership of the National Assembly.
Idris highlighted inconsistencies in the AFP report, noting its dependence on anonymous “intelligence sources” and individuals “familiar with the talks,” in contrast to authoritative government positions.
He dismissed as “fiction” claims that ransom money was delivered by helicopter to insurgents in Gwoza, Borno State a known Boko Haram enclave near the Cameroon border pointing out that the DSS had already characterised the helicopter allegation as “fake and laughable.”
The minister maintained that the rescue of the abducted pupils and staff was achieved through professional intelligence gathering and operational precision, without any negotiation involving ransom payments.
“Nigeria is confronting a structured, profit-driven criminal enterprise. The successful rescue of the pupils, without casualty, was the result of professional intelligence and operational precision,” he added.
The government reiterated its respect for press freedom but urged media organisations to verify information before publication, warning that speculative reporting could embolden criminals and undermine troop morale.
Idris emphasised that Nigeria values its strategic partnership with international allies and remains open to constructive dialogue rooted in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and recognition of Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“The Federal Government will continue to engage international partners through appropriate diplomatic channels while remaining focused on its primary duty the protection of all Nigerians,” he concluded.
The controversy stems from AFP’s investigation into the November 21, 2025 abduction, which initially involved nearly 300 victims. Dozens reportedly escaped before the eventual release of the remaining captives.
AFP sources alleged that a senior Boko Haram commander identified as Ali Ngulde received the payment, while another figure known as Sadiku allegedly masterminded the kidnapping.
Nigeria’s Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 criminalises ransom payments by individuals and institutions to kidnappers and terrorist groups, a position the government has consistently upheld.
