The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has said it has not received any formal notification regarding reports of the release of 100 students recently abducted in Niger State.
In a statement issued Monday, the Chairman of CAN’s Niger State chapter, Bishop Bulus Yohanna, noted that while such news would be welcomed by grieving families, the association has yet to be officially informed of the students’ whereabouts.
“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 duly notified,” Yohanna said.
He added that the association continues to hope and pray for the safe release of all remaining abductees.
On 21 November 2025, armed bandits attacked St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, abducting 315 people including 303 students and 12 teachers. Within the first day, 50 pupils managed to escape and were reunited with their families.
Last week, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, visited the school, assuring parents and staff that the abducted children were safe and would soon be returned.
Meanwhile, retired Major General John Enenche, former Director of Media Operations at the Defence Headquarters, commended the Federal Government and security agencies for reportedly securing the release of 100 of the abducted students.
“The government and security agencies have done a lot, and Nigerians will be happy for this. I can tell you it is not easy, whichever way or means were used to get these children out,” Enenche said during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics.
 has said it has not received any formal notification regarding reports of the release){kind=link}