Joe Bright

Nigerian authorities say the attack occurred in the early hours of Friday at the St.

Mary's Catholic School in Papiri.

A massive search and rescue operation is now underway.

Local authorities have accused the school of ignoring an order from the government to close all boarding facilities in the area amid intelligence warnings of a heightened risk of abductions.

Nigeria has faced a wave of attacks by armed groups in recent weeks.

The Trump administration has accused Nigeria's government of failing to protect civilians and of condoning a genocide against Christians.

The Nigerian government denies this and says people of all religions have been victims of attacks.

Joe Bright, NPR News, Lagos