By Adesakin Adefemi
November 23, 2025
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State has confirmed that 50 pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, have escaped and reunited with their families.
The abduction occurred days ago when armed terrorists invaded the school, taking a total of 303 pupils, students, and staff. The number was later updated to 315, including 12 teachers, according to reports from Tribune Online.
In a statement issued in Minna by his media aide, Prince Dan Atori, CAN Chairman Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna said the escaped children fled between Friday and Saturday, returning directly to their homes rather than the school premises. School officials later verified their return through parents.
According to Bishop Yohanna, who is also the proprietor of the school, the primary school has 430 pupils, including 377 boarders and 53 day students. Of these, 141 were not abducted, while 236 primary pupils, three children of staff, and 14 secondary school students remain in captivity, along with 12 staff members, totaling 253.
The CAN chairman expressed relief over the return of the 50 pupils but urged the public to continue praying for the safe release of those still held. “We receive the return of these 50 children with some sigh of relief, but I urge you all to continue in your prayers for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims,” he said.
CAN and the school management are working closely with security agencies, community leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders to secure the release of the captives. No ransom demands have been reported.
Bishop Yohanna appealed for divine intervention, praying for the swift freedom of the remaining captives and protection for the community. The statement did not specify the suspected group behind the abduction.
The incident has heightened fears of escalating insecurity in Niger State and broader Nigeria, with frequent reports of banditry, kidnappings, and terror attacks. CAN has been vocal about addressing such crises.
The government has yet to comment officially on the abduction or the ongoing efforts to rescue the victims. The situation remains tense as families anxiously await updates.
The development has sparked calls for increased security measures in schools and communities, as parents and residents grapple with the trauma of the abduction.
