Nigerian Government Allegedly Paid N10 Billion Ransom

A report by AFP claims that the Nigerian government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, paid a ransom of N10 billion to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren from St. Mary's Catholic School.

The report cites sources familiar with the negotiations, stating that the payment was made to release two senior Boko Haram commanders as part of the arrangement. This action contradicts Nigerian law, which prohibits ransom payments to kidnappers.

The total ransom was estimated at N40 million per head, amounting to approximately N9.8 billion for the release of 230 schoolchildren and an unspecified number of teachers. The government announced the release of 130 pupils from St.

Mary's Catholic School on December 21, 2025, following their abduction on November 20. Earlier, 50 pupils escaped between November 21 and 22, and on December 7, authorities announced the release of 100 abducted schoolchildren.

The spokesperson for the president did not respond to requests for comments regarding the ransom payment.