The Niger State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria and Bishop of the Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, has announced that fifty of the pupils abducted from St. Mary Private Primary and Secondary Schools have escaped from their captors and reunited with their families.

Yohanna, in a statement issued by his media aide, Daniel Atori, said the development was confirmed after visits to the parents of the children.

“This is to notify the public that as of Sunday, 23rd November 2025, we received some good news as fifty (50) pupils escaped and have reunited with their parents,” he said.

He explained that the pupils escaped between Friday and Saturday and went directly home instead of returning to the school.

“The pupils escaped between Friday and Saturday and have reunited with their parents, as they could not return to the school after escaping. We were able to ascertain this when we contacted and visited some parents,” the statement read.

He added that 236 pupils, three children of staff, and 14 secondary school students remain in captivity, making a total of 253 children, alongside 12 staff members still held by the abductors.

While expressing relief at the return of the 50 children, Yohanna appealed for continued prayers for the safe return of those still held.

“I call on everyone to remain calm and prayerful. We will continue to actively collaborate with security operatives, community leaders, government, and relevant authorities for the safe and quick return of all abductees. May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect His people from all dangers,” he said.

The Niger State Police Command has yet to comment on the development.

Earlier reports stated that 315 people, including pupils, students and staff, were abducted from the school in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area on Friday, prompting the state government to close schools across Niger State.