December 22, 2025 | News | SUNTV Global Channel
The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, Niger State, has officially confirmed the release of the second batch of pupils, students, and staff abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, bringing weeks of fear and uncertainty to an end.
The mass abduction occurred on November 21, 2025, when heavily armed gunmen stormed the Catholic boarding school and kidnapped more than 300 pupils and teachers, triggering nationwide outrage and intense security operations.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the Secretary of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph, the Church confirmed that all those remaining in captivity had been safely released, corroborating earlier reports that emerged on Sunday, December 20.
SaharaReporters had earlier reported that the final group of abductees was freed following sustained interventions by security agencies and government authorities, ending weeks of anguish for parents, guardians, and the wider Papiri community.
Reacting to the development, the Diocese expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians and the international community for their prayers and support throughout the ordeal.
“We appreciate the prayers, solidarity, and understanding shown by parents, guardians, the Church, media organizations, and the general public throughout this difficult period,” the statement read.
“The cooperation and responsible reporting by the media are particularly acknowledged.”
The Catholic Diocese also commended the role played by government authorities and security agencies in securing the release of the victims.
“We are profoundly grateful to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Niger State Government, the security agencies, and all other partners whose efforts and interventions contributed to the safe release of the victims,” the Diocese stated.
Acknowledging the resilience of affected families and the wider community, the Church added that parents, guardians, clergy, religious bodies, and humanitarian organisations demonstrated exceptional solidarity during the crisis.
The Diocese reassured the public of its continued commitment to the safety and wellbeing of pupils and staff, stressing that measures would be strengthened to ensure a secure learning environment.
“The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora remains committed to the protection, welfare, and safety of all pupils, students, and staff, and will continue to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure a secure and conducive learning environment,” the statement said.
The Church further assured that any additional information would be communicated through authorised channels to maintain transparency and accuracy.
The statement concluded with a prayerful note, calling for divine protection and peace across troubled communities.
“May the Lord continue to protect His people from all dangers and grant lasting peace to our land,” it said.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates.
