Kidnapping remains a national crisis, with a recent study indicating that between 2015 and 2025, at least 212 Catholic priests were kidnapped in Nigeria. Authorities now say the release of the other 130 means none of those kidnapped at the school is still held. “We thank God for the release of the remaining abducted children and staff of St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri,” the group said. Kidnappings remain a national crisisDespite the release of the children, kidnapping in Nigeria is still a national crisis. “Nigeria’s kidnapping crisis has evolved into a lucrative criminal enterprise, with N2.56 billion ($1.66 million) confirmed in ransom payments and 4,722 civilians abducted in just one year.

Source: CNN December 26, 2025 03:37 UTC