The Christian Association of Nigeria in Niger State has said it is yet to receive official confirmation on the reported release of 100 students abducted from a school in Agwara Local Government Area of the state.
The chairman of the state chapter of CAN and proprietor of St. Mary Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, Bishop Bulus Yohanne, made this known in a statement issued on Sunday through his media aide, Daniel Atori.
The school was attacked by bandits on November 21, 2025, during which no fewer than 303 pupils, students and teachers were abducted. Two days after the attack, 50 pupils reportedly escaped and returned to their homes.
Reacting to reports of the release of 100 of the abducted students, Bishop Yohanne expressed cautious optimism, describing the development as a possible answer to prayers.
“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,” he said.
The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, and a retired senior military officer, Major General John Enenche, were earlier quoted as commending the Federal Government and security agencies following the announcement of the reported release on Channels Television.
Meanwhile, Christians across Niger State observed a three day fasting and prayer programme organised by CAN for the release of the remaining abductees. The exercise ended on Sunday at the First ECWA Church in Minna.
Guest speaker, Pastor Peter Ojo, urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayer, saying prayer still works, as families of the remaining 265 victims await their release.
