“We’ve Not Been Notified” – CAN Reacts To Release Of 100 Abducted Niger Students

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) says it has not been informed about the reported release of 100 students kidnapped in Niger State.

The news was announced by TVC News and Channels Television on Sunday, though no official statement from federal authorities had been released at the time.

In a statement on Monday, the Niger State chairman of the CAN, Bishop Bulus Yohanna, said it would be a relief to hear that some of the children had regained their freedom.

Nukus, who clarified that no official update has reached the affected communities, noted that the victims’ families have been praying and hoping for good news.

‘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 a cheering news. However, we are not officially aware and have not been duly notified.

‘We hope and pray it’s true and will be looking forward to when the remaining will be released”, the statement read.

The abduction took place on November 21, 2025, when gunmen raided St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, seizing 315 people including 303 students and 12 teachers.

Within the first day, around 50 pupils managed to escape and were reunited with their families.

Last week, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu visited the school and assured parents that the abducted students were alive and would be brought home soon.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, former Defence Headquarters media director Major General John Enenche (retired) praised the Federal Government for securing the release of 100 of the students.

He also commended security agencies, noting that such operations are difficult and often complex.

“My take is that the government and the security agencies have done a lot, and I believe that Nigerians will be happy for this.

“I can tell you that it is not easy, whichever way or means were used to get these children out,” Enenche said.

KanyiDaily had also reported how a senior Nigerian Army officer, Brigadier General M. Uba, was killed bythe Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).