The Niger government says it has converted all boarding schools to day schools and bought over 2,000 motorcycles to stem the rising tide of abductions following the kidnap of Tegina schoolchildren.

It added that it had begun negotiation with bandits responsible for the kidnapping of the pupils of Salihu Tanko Islamic School, Tegina, Rafi local government area of the state.

The government also said it was aware of the ongoing negotiation between the parents of the abducted pupils but insisted that it would not pay any ransom for the safe release of the pupils.

Deputy Governor Mohammed Ketso stated this in Minna on Wednesday while updating journalists on the abducted pupils.

“Niger state government is negotiating the release of the abductees, and we are confident that in no distant time, the pupils will be united with their parents.

“Government is in touch with some of the parents of the kidnapped children. They have been assured of the safe return of their wards,” he said.

The deputy governor also said that contrary to reports that 200 children were abducted, only 163 children, including some staff were taken away by the bandits.

“Government has established contacts with the abductors,” he said.

He assured the public that all the pupils would be rescued and reunite with their parents safely.

As part of the security measure, he also said the government had converted all boarding schools in the state to day schools until further notice.

Mr Ketso stated that the state banned commercial motorcycle operators in Minna with effect from June 3.

According to him, only private motorcycles will be allowed to operate between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.

“These are parts of measures being put in place by the government towards addressing the rising security situation in the state, especially Minna, the state capital,” he said.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the security agencies with needed logistics to secure the state.

“We have so far given 89 operational vehicles, 283 operational motorcycles, 30 bicycles, four tricycles in addition to funding the various security operations in the state.

“These are in addition to 70 vehicles and 2,300 motorcycles as mobility support for the vigilante corps in the state,” Mr Ketsu disclosed.