The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, visited the Papiri school last week, assuring staff and parents that the abducted children were safe and would soon return. Reacting to reports that 100 students had been freed, Bishop Yohanne expressed cautious optimism, noting that while the news was encouraging, the church had not yet received official confirmation. He said they remained hopeful and prayerful for the full and safe return of all the children.
Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, and retired senior military officer, Major General John Enenche, commended the Federal Government and security agencies following Channels TV’s announcement that 100 abducted pupils had been released. During a live interview on Politics Today, Governor Sule described the development as “cheering news,” praising the coordinated security efforts that made the breakthrough possible.
Meanwhile, Christians across Niger State held a three-day fasting and prayer programme, seeking divine intervention for the release of the remaining abductees. Organised by the state chapter of CAN, the event ran across all 25 LGAs and concluded on Sunday at the 1st ECWA Church, Minna. Guest speaker Pastor Peter Ojo urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayer, while Rev. Ezekiel Ibrahim, representing Bishop Yohanne, encouraged unity, urging citizens to “worship passionately and pray boldly” for the safe return of the 265 children and teachers still in captivity.
