The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, has said it is yet to receive official confirmation regarding the reported release of 100 abducted pupils from St. Mary Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.

This comes after media reports indicated that the Federal Government had secured the release of 100 of the abducted schoolchildren.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his media aide, Daniel Atori, the Chairman of CAN in Niger State and Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Bishop Bulus Yohanne—who also owns St. Mary’s School—said the church remains cautiously optimistic.

“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 notified. We hope and pray it’s true and will be looking forward to when the remaining will be released,” he stated.

The school was attacked on November 21, 2025, when bandits stormed the premises and abducted at least 303 students, pupils, and teachers. Two days later, 50 pupils managed to escape and reunited with their families.

Last week, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, visited the school and assured anxious parents and church authorities that the abducted students were alive and that the government was doing everything possible to rescue them.

Leaders Applaud Reported Release

The Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, described the development as “cheering news” during a live interview, praising the coordinated efforts of security agencies. Retired military officer, Major General John Enenche, also commended the reported progress.

Although official confirmation is still pending, optimism continues to build among concerned families and religious bodies.

Statewide Prayers as 265 Remain Missing

Across Niger State, Christians concluded a three-day fasting and prayer programme on Sunday, organised by CAN across all 25 local government areas.

Believers gathered at the 1st ECWA Church in Minna to intercede for the safe release of the remaining 265 pupils and staff still held in captivity.

Guest preacher, Pastor Peter Ojo, urged Nigerians not to lose hope: “Prayer still works.”

Representing Bishop Yohanne, Rev. Ezekiel Ibrahim appealed to citizens to unite in prayer. “Let us worship passionately and pray boldly,” he said, calling for solidarity beyond denominational lines.

African Churches Express Solidarity

The Organisation of African Instituted Churches extended sympathy and support to the affected families and the Bishop of Kontagora Diocese.

OAIC Secretary, Sunday Ojimi, said the incident had caused deep pain but expressed hope for the safe return of all victims.

“Our hearts are full of hope, and we remain optimistic that the children and teachers will return safely,” he said. “In unity, we share in the pain caused by this incident, and our prayers are with you.”

As families await official confirmation, the nation watches closely, hoping the reported breakthrough marks the beginning of a full rescue.