Bishop Yohanne cautious as reports emerge of 100 students’ release

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State has said it has not received official confirmation regarding the reported release of 100 students abducted from Agwara, but described it as potentially “God’s answer to prayers.”

Bishop Bulus Yohanne, Chairman of Niger CAN and proprietor of St. Mary Private Catholic Schools, disclosed this on Sunday through his media aide, Daniel Atori. The schools were attacked by bandits on November 21, 2025, with 303 pupils, students, and teachers abducted. Two days later, 50 pupils escaped and returned home.

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, visited the school last week, assuring authorities and parents that the remaining abducted children were safe.

Expressing cautious optimism, 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.”

Christians across Niger State observed a three-day fasting and prayer program organized by the state CAN chapter. The event, which concluded at the 1st ECWA Church in Minna, aimed to seek divine intervention for the safe return of the remaining 265 children and teachers still in captivity.

Pastor Peter Ojo encouraged continued prayer, while Rev. Ezekiel Ibrahim urged citizens to unite in faith. The Organisation of African Instituted Churches also expressed solidarity, hoping for a safe reunion of the abducted children with their families.