The attack on St. Mary’s School in Niger State, which left 303 students and 12 teachers kidnapped, has sparked widespread concern and a call for action from international leaders. Officials at the Christian Association of Nigeria, including Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, confirmed that 50 of the students had escaped and were safely back with their families by Saturday. However, the remaining 253 students and 12 teachers are still missing, and no group has yet claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.
Pope Francis expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the need for immediate action to release the captives. In a statement following a Mass at St. Peter’s Square, the Pope appealed to authorities to take decisive measures to secure the students’ and teachers’ release. The pontiff’s comments were met with widespread media attention, highlighting the global concern for the safety of hostages in such situations.
The Nigerian government has responded by closing all schools in the region following the attack, as well as several federal colleges in conflict-prone areas. This move has disrupted education for thousands of students, raising concerns about the long-term impact on academic progress. Meanwhile, the U.S. government has intensified its efforts to address Christian violence in Nigeria, with President Donald Trump asserting that the West African nation is a ‘country of particular concern.’ The Trump administration has threatened aid cuts, citing the worsening situation for Christians in Nigeria.
The recent kidnapping at St. Mary’s is part of a broader pattern of attacks on Christian institutions across Nigeria. Just days prior, armed men kidnapped 25 girls from a boarding school in Kebbi State, killing at least one staff member. The search for the missing girls remains ongoing. Additionally, 38 worshippers kidnapped during a deadly church attack in Kwara State were recently released after several days in captivity, credited to the efforts of security agencies.
While the Nigerian government has defended its actions and disputed the U.S. government’s claims of ongoing violence against Christians, concerns remain about the security and stability in the region. The international community, including religious leaders and governments, continues to urge immediate action to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of civilians in Nigeria.