- He called for the immediate release of all abductees and urged authorities to act promptly
- The Supreme Pontiff described the situation as heartbreaking
- His appeal comes in the wake of several coordinated attacks last week
Pope Leo XIV has urged President Bola Tinubu to take swift and decisive action to secure the release of schoolchildren currently held by terrorists across Nigeria and neighbouring Cameroon.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Pope, in a message shared on X, expressed deep distress over the rising wave of kidnappings targeting priests, worshippers and students in both countries.
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The Supreme Pontiff described the situation as heartbreaking, particularly for the young victims and their families who continue to live in fear.
He called for the immediate release of all abductees and urged authorities to act promptly and responsibly to ensure their freedom.
He also encouraged Christians worldwide to pray for the victims and for churches and schools to remain safe spaces for learning and worship.
His appeal comes in the wake of several coordinated attacks last week, where over 350 people were abducted nationwide.
In Kebbi State, 25 female students were taken from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, while an attack in Kwara State left 38 worshippers abducted and three killed.
Additionally, 315 students and staff of St. Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State, were seized by terrorists.
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