Table of Contents

  1. Confirmation of Student Release
  2. Statement from CAN
  3. Details of the Abduction
  4. National Security Adviser Visit
  5. Reactions to the Reports

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, announced that it has not received any official confirmation regarding the reports that 100 of the students abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri have been freed.

In a statement released on Monday, the state chairman of CAN, Bishop Bulus Yohanna, indicated that neither the association nor the affected communities have been formally informed of any release.

“It would be a joyous occasion if some of our children have been freed. We have been praying and anxiously awaiting their return,” Yohanna expressed.

“If this is accurate, then it is encouraging news. However, we are not officially informed and have not received proper notification. We hope and pray that it is true and look forward to the safe return of the remaining children,” he added.

DAILY POST reminds us that the abduction occurred on November 21, 2025, when armed bandits attacked the school, taking 315 individuals, including 303 students and 12 teachers.

Fortunately, approximately 50 pupils managed to escape within the first 24 hours and were reunited with their families.

Last week, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, visited the school and reassured parents that the remaining abductees were safe and would soon be returning home.

In response to the release reports during a Channels Television program on Sunday, former Director of Media Operations at the Defence Headquarters, Major General John Enenche (retd.), praised the Federal Government and security agencies for what he termed a significant breakthrough.

“In my opinion, the government and security agencies have accomplished a great deal, and I believe that Nigerians will be pleased with this development,” Enenche stated.

“I can assure you that it is not an easy task, regardless of the methods used to secure the release of these children,” Enenche concluded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have any students been officially confirmed as released?

No, the Christian Association of Nigeria has not received any official confirmation regarding the release of the students.

When did the abduction occur?

The abduction took place on November 21, 2025.

What was the response from the National Security Adviser?

The National Security Adviser assured parents that the remaining abductees were safe and would soon return home.