By Correspondent in Minna.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, has announced a major development in the aftermath of the attack on St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Agwara LGA, where suspected terrorists abducted 303 pupils and students last week.
According to the latest update issued on Sunday, November 23, 2025, in Minna,50 pupils, abducted during the attack, successfully escaped between Friday and Saturday and have since been safely reunited with their families.
The encouraging news was delivered by the Chairman of CAN, Niger State chapter, and Proprietor of the school, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, who also serves as the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese.
Our Correspondent recalls that the incident occurred at St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri,an institution with 430 pupils in the primary section alone, 377 of whom are boarders.
The escape took place over two days,Friday and Saturday,,after which the children were unable to return to the school and instead, made their way to families in surrounding communities.
Aside from the 50 pupils who escaped, the school confirmed that 141 pupils were not abducted during the attack.
The CAN chairman added that 236 pupils, 3 children of staff, 14 secondary school students, and 12 staff members, totalling 253 individuals, remain in captivity.
Our Correspondent reports that the development has offered a measure of relief to worried parents and Nigerians at large, demonstrating that coordinated efforts by families, community leaders, and security operatives are yielding early results.
Most Rev. Yohanna assured the public that collaboration with security agencies, community leaders, and government authorities is ongoing and being strengthened to ensure the safe rescue of all remaining abductees.
He urged citizens to remain calm and prayerful, noting that the commitment to securing the release of those still in captivity remains unwavering.
“As much as we receive the return of these 50 children with some sigh of relief, I urge you all to continue in your prayers for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims,” the Bishop said through his media aide, Daniel Atori.
The Bishop prayed for divine protection and swift release of all those still held by the abductors.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
