BREAKING a Christmas Miracle as All Kidnapped Catholic Children from Nigeria Now Returned Home - Prayers Answered!

The Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Kontagora, Nigeria, Africa,  Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, on Dec. 23 confirmed the release of the remaining 130 kidnapped students and staff abducted from St. Mary’s Primary and Secondary School in Papiri on 21 November. The children and staff were part of an original 315 victims forcibly taken by gunmen from the school in the night. An initial group of 100 students was released on December 7, while approximately 50 young people managed to escape on their own during the kidnapping
The news of the children's release was first announced in a post on X by a spokesperson for the Nigerian presidency. According to Nigerian authorities, no victims from St. Mary’s School remain in captivity.

CONFIRMATION OF THE SECOND BATCH RELEASE OF THE KIDNAPPED STAFF, PUPILS, AND STUDENTS FROM ST. MARY'S CATHOLIC PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS, PAPIRI

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora wishes to formally inform the public that the release of the second batch of those abducted from St. Mary's Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, has been confirmed as of Sunday, 21st December 2025.

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. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the parents, guardians, clergy, religious communities, humanitarian organizations, and the wider public for their prayers, support, and solidarity throughout this challenging period.

Further updates and additional information, as may be necessary, will be communicated to the public in a timely manner through appropriate and authorized channels to ensure accuracy, transparency, and clarity in all official statements. The Diocese remains committed to keeping all stakeholders fully informed as the situation develops and verification processes are completed.

We appreciate the prayers, solidarity, and understanding shown by parents, guardians, the Church, media organizations, and the general public throughout this difficult period. The cooperation and responsible reporting by the media are particularly acknowledged.

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 all relevant authorities to ensure a secure and conducive learning environment.

May the Lord grant the swift release of those still in captivity and continue to protect His people from all dangers.

Rev. Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph Diocesan Secretary