The Christian Association of Nigeria notes that although it is not formally informed of the alleged release of 100 kidnapped students from Agwara, Niger State, it would be God’s response to prayers.
Bishop Bulus Yohanne, the chairman of the CAN chapter in Niger State and the proprietor of St. Mary Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, revealed this on Sunday in a statement via Daniel Atori, his media aid.
On November 21, 2025, bandits invaded the school and kidnapped at least 303 students, including teachers.
Two days later, 50 pupils escaped and returned home.
Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Advisor, visited the Papiri school last week to reassure the parents and school administration that the kidnapped children were safe and would return soon.
Expressing cautious optimism over the news of 100 students being released, Bishop Yohanne said, “It will be a thing of joy if some of our children have been released. We have been praying and waiting for their return. If it is true, then it is cheering news.
“However, we are not officially aware and have not been duly notified. We hope and pray it’s true and will be looking forward to when the remaining will be released.”
It was reported that the Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, and a retired senior military officer, Major General John Enenche (retd.), have praised the Federal Government and security agencies for securing the release of 100 abducted pupils following the announcement by Channels TV, which stated that, “The Federal Government has secured the release of 100 pupils abducted.”
Sule, who spoke during a live phone-in interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday, described the development as “cheering news” and cheered the coordinated efforts that led to the success.
Meanwhile, Christians across Niger State observed a three-day fasting and prayer programme, calling on God to secure the release of the remaining abductees.
The event, which started on Friday across all 25 local government areas and ended on Sunday at the 1st ECWA Church in Minna, was organized by the State branch of CAN.
Concerned that the 265 children and teachers remained in captivity and had been detained for too long, Christians from a variety of denominations met to pray for their freedom.
Guest speaker, Pastor Peter Ojo, urged Nigerians to persist in prayer, saying, “Prayer still works.”
Representing Bishop Yohanne, his deputy, Rev. Ezekiel Ibrahim, encouraged citizens to set aside differences and pray together for divine intervention, urging, “Let us worship passionately and pray boldly.”
The Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, as well as the families, kids, and teachers affected by the kidnapping, received support from the Organization of African Instituted Churches.
OAIC Secretary, Sunday Ojimi, said, “No words can express the shock and pain the incident has caused, but we find strength and hope in our faith. Our hearts are full of hope, and we are optimistic that the children and teachers will return safely to be reunited with their families soon.
“In unity, we share in the pain caused by this incident, and our prayers are with you at this time of trial. We await the good news of their safe return.”
