Diocese of Kontagora’s Catholic Bishop, Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, on Monday confirmed to Vatican News the release of 130 students and staff abducted from St. Mary’s Primary and Secondary School in Papiri on 21 November. The children and staff were part of an original 315 victims forcibly taken by gunmen from the school in the night.
Paul Samasumo – Vatican City.
The news of the children’s release was first announced in a post on X by a spokesperson for the Nigerian presidency. According to Nigerian authorities, no victims from St. Mary’s School remain in captivity.
In a message to Vatican News after the children’s release, Bishop Yohanna expressed immense relief, attributing the pre-Christmas development to prayers offered by the faithful in the Diocese and around the world. He also thanked everyone for their solidarity.
An answer to prayer
“I am deeply grateful to God for his providence and protection during this extremely difficult period. The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora rejoices in confirming the safe release of the second batch of children abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools – Papri. This development is a testimony to answered prayers and the power of faith in sustaining hope amidst fear and uncertainty,” said Bishop Yohanna.
He has thanked the Nigerian Federal and local authorities for securing the release of the children.
“The release and well-being of the children were made possible through the decisive and coordinated efforts of the Government at both the Federal and state levels. The authorities took comprehensive measures to ensure their safe release, including psychological support, trauma examination, and medical care for all the children,” said the prelate of Kontagora.
Appreciation to Security Officials
He continued, “I acknowledge with deep gratitude the professionalism and dedication of the security agencies, medical personnel, and all partners involved. This has been a profoundly challenging period, not only for the affected children but also for their parents, families, the Church, and the entire community in Kontagora. The anxiety, worry, and emotional toll on everyone involved cannot be overstated, yet through prayers, solidarity, and unwavering faith, we have witnessed the mercy of God in bringing our children safely back to their families,” he said.
Continue to pray for healing
The Bishop has since appealed to all the faithful and the wider public around the world to continue praying for the healing, restoration, and protection of children. “I also urge all stakeholders, including government agencies, religious organizations, and civil society, to continue collaborating to ensure the safety and security of schools and children across the nation,” he said.
Bishop Yohanna further called on communities in the Diocese of Kontagora to remain vigilant, compassionate, and united in supporting the children and families affected, ensuring they are fully reintegrated and cared for during this period of recovery.
“Let this experience strengthen our faith and remind us of the power of prayer, unity, and collective action in overcoming even the most difficult circumstances, “ said Bishop Yohanna.
In total, 303 students and 12 staff members were initially abducted from St. Mary’s Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Niger State, on 21 November. The final tally, ensuring that all students are accounted for, was continuing as of Monday evening.
