Confirming earlier reports from government officials, the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) announced that all staff and students kidnapped from their school in Papiri, Nigeria, have been safely released.
“With profound relief and thanksgiving, we celebrate that every child and staff member has returned to safety after weeks of fear, uncertainty, and intense prayer,” said Sister Mary Barron, head of the institute.
She added, “From the first hours of the abduction, the OLA family—together with the local Church in the Diocese of Kontagora, the families of Papiri, and communities across Nigeria—was supported by a remarkable global solidarity of prayer and advocacy. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who stood with us during this painful time.”
The abduction, which occurred on November 21, involved 303 students and 12 teachers. Two days later, 50 children managed to escape, while the remaining captives were freed last month.