Niger CAN Seeks Official Confirmation on Reported Release of 100 Abducted Students

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State has said it has not yet received official confirmation regarding reports that 100 abducted students from Agwara have been released, but expressed hope that such development would be an answer to prayers.

The Chairman of the state chapter of CAN and proprietor of St. Mary Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, Bishop Bulus Yohanne, made this known in a statement on Sunday through his media aide, Daniel Atori.

The school was attacked by bandits on November 21, 2025, during which at least 303 pupils, students, and teachers were abducted. Two days later, 50 pupils reportedly escaped and made their way back home. The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, later visited the school and assured the management and parents that efforts were ongoing and that the abducted children were safe.

Reacting to reports of the release of 100 students, Bishop Yohanne expressed cautious optimism, describing the news as a potential source of joy if confirmed. He said the association had continued to pray and wait for the return of the children but had not been formally notified of any release.

Meanwhile, Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, and a retired senior military officer, Major General John Enenche, have commended the Federal Government and security agencies over reports of the students’ release aired by television stations. Governor Sule, during a live interview on a current affairs programme, described the development as encouraging and praised the coordinated security efforts said to have led to the reported breakthrough.

Across Niger State, Christians observed a three-day period of fasting and prayers, organised by the state chapter of CAN, calling for the release of the remaining abducted victims. The prayer programme was held across all 25 local government areas and concluded at the 1st ECWA Church in Minna.

Christians from different denominations gathered to pray for the freedom of the 265 children and teachers still in captivity, expressing concern over the length of their ordeal.

Speaking at the event, Pastor Peter Ojo encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayer, while Rev. Ezekiel Ibrahim, representing Bishop Yohanne, urged citizens to set aside their differences and unite in seeking divine intervention.

The Organisation of African Instituted Churches also expressed solidarity with the affected families, the school community and the Kontagora Diocese. Its Secretary, Sunday Ojimi, said the incident had caused deep pain but strengthened the resolve of the faithful to remain hopeful, adding that prayers would continue until the children and teachers are safely reunited with their families.