It is being widely reported that a number of the children abducted from St Mary’s School in Papiri may have been released, and we welcome this development with deep relief and hope. Any movement toward the safe return of these children is a grace, and we hold this possibility with gratitude.
Information from several reputable national and international media sources, together with statements attributed to Nigerian federal authorities and a UN contact, indicates that around 100 of the abducted children may now be in official custody. According to these reports, a group of pupils was received by local officials in Niger State after renewed assurances from the Nigerian Government that the safe return of the children and staff remains a national priority. For a community that has lived through days of fear and uncertainty, this development brings a measure of encouragement.
At the same time, local Church leaders and some Niger State officials have noted that they have not yet received full, formal confirmation, including detailed lists of names. Independent humanitarian verification has also not been made public.
Our hearts remain with the families in Papiri and all who continue to wait for news of their children. We continue to accompany the community in vigil and prayer as they navigate this painful uncertainty. We ask you to join us in prayer for the safe return of every child and member of staff who is still missing, and for strength for the families who continue to wait.
We will share further updates as soon as clear and reliable information becomes available. Until then, we hold the whole school community in prayer, asking for the safe return of every child and member of staff who is still missing.
Abduction at St Mary’s Schools, Papiri – A Call to Prayer and Solidarity
Sr Mary Barron OLA Appeals for Irish Government Support Following Abduction at St Mary’s Schools, Papiri