By Ayomide Otitoju
The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, which saw students, teachers, and security personnel abducted by gunmen.
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, CAN said the incident occurred between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025. The attackers reportedly arrived in large numbers, riding over 60 motorcycles and accompanied by a van, and shot the school’s gatekeeper, leaving him seriously injured.
“The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State, strongly condemns the attack and expresses deep concern for the safety of the kidnapped children and their families,” the statement read. It added that some teachers and security staff were also forcibly taken during the assault.
Rev. Yohanna, who also serves as Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, assured that the Church is collaborating with security agencies, community leaders, and government authorities to secure the safe return of the abductees. He urged the public to remain calm, support security efforts, and continue to pray for the victims.
“The CAN reaffirms our commitment to the protection of children and will provide updates as verified information becomes available,” Yohanna said. “May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect His people from all dangers.”
