Deep concern has swept through the Vatican as Pope Leo XIV reacted to the recent wave of kidnappings targeting Catholic priests, Christians, and schoolchildren in Nigeria and Cameroon. During the Angelus prayer on Sunday, November 23, the Pope said he received the news “with profound sadness,” stressing that the ordeal is especially heartbreaking due to the large number of abducted children and the agony their families are facing.
“I carry deep sorrow, particularly for the many boys and girls taken away and for the suffering of their families. I make a sincere plea for the immediate freedom of all those held captive,” Pope Leo XIV said.He appealed to the “responsible authorities” to move quickly and decisively to secure their release.
The Holy Father also encouraged prayers for the victims, adding, “Let us pray that our churches and schools will always be places of protection and hope.”
Nigeria continues to grapple with widespread violence driven by criminal gangs who engage in kidnapping, attacks, and killings. The long-running Boko Haram insurgency, which began in 2009, remains one of the country’s biggest security threats. In addition, the situation is worsened by clashes involving armed Fulani herdsmen, often linked to increasing attacks in several regions.
In recent months, Catholic priests and students have repeatedly been targeted. On November 21, armed men kidnapped pupils, staff, and teachers of St. Mary’s Catholic Nursery, Primary, and Secondary Schools in the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora. They remain in captivity.Just days earlier, on November 17, gunmen stormed St. Stephen Parish in Kaduna Archdiocese, kidnapping several people, including Fr. Bobbo Paschal, and killing the brother of Fr. Anthony Yero.
On November 18, Bishop Yohana Dauwa Bulus of Kontagora warned that children are no longer safe, following the kidnapping of 25 girls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State. One of the girls managed to escape on November 19.
As global concern continues to rise, Pope Leo XIV addressed the situation again on November 18 while leaving the Papal Residence in Castel Gandolfo. Speaking to EWTN News, he condemned the growing insecurity and called for stronger protection for civilians.
“There is real danger in some parts of Nigeria, not only for Christians but for everyone,” he said. “Christians and Muslims have been killed. These issues are tied to terrorism, economic struggles, and battles for land.”
He emphasized that lasting peace will require cooperation among religious groups, civil leaders, and the Nigerian government.
