Pope Leo XIV has called for the urgent and unconditional release of the 315 students abducted in Niger State, condemning the rising wave of insecurity and kidnappings targeting children across Nigeria.
In a message delivered from the Vatican on Sunday, the Pontiff described the abduction of the schoolchildren as “an unacceptable assault on human dignity and the sanctity of life,” urging their captors to free them without delay and refrain from further acts of violence.
He expressed deep concern over the trauma inflicted on the families of the abducted children and appealed to Nigerian authorities to intensify rescue efforts, protect schools, and restore safety in communities constantly terrorized by armed groups.
“The kidnapping of innocent students is a grave violation of their rights and a wound to the collective conscience of humanity.
“I join millions across the world in praying for their safe return and call on those responsible to release these children immediately,” Pope Leo XIV said.
The Pope also extended solidarity to the affected families, assuring them of the Church’s prayers and support.
He urged global leaders, humanitarian organizations and faith communities to stand with Nigeria as it confronts what he termed a “disturbing resurgence of violence against the vulnerable.”
Reacting to the development, several Catholic church in Nigeria welcomed the Pope’s statement, describing it as a moral boost and a reminder of the international community’s concern over the worsening security situation.
Security officials say search and rescue operations are ongoing, though details remain undisclosed.
Parents and community leaders have continued mounting pressure on the government, accusing authorities of failing to act swiftly to prevent recurring school abductions.
The kidnapping of the 315 students is the latest in a series of mass abductions in northern Nigeria, raising renewed fears over student safety and the growing influence of armed gangs in rural communities.
The Vatican’s intervention is expected to intensify global attention on the crisis and amplify calls for decisive action to secure the release of the abducted children.
