The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State chapter, has called for the immediate rescue of 78 schoolchildren and other victims who have remained in captivity for more than 100 days following separate attacks in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of the state.
The state CAN Chairman, John Bakeni, made the appeal on Sunday during a prayer session in Maiduguri organised to mark the association’s 50th anniversary.
Bakeni said the prolonged insecurity and abductions had made the anniversary a sober occasion for the Christian community in Borno, with residents also dealing with economic hardship.
“CAN is 50. There are lots of events and activities that have been lined up. Sadly, at the state level, our celebration is a sober one,” he said.
He said CAN had continued to engage government and security authorities through advocacy over the plight of people being held captive.
Bakeni expressed concern about the psychological and emotional toll the prolonged captivity was having on the victims and their families.
“These kids have spent over 100 days in captivity. You can imagine the pain, agony and trauma their parents are going through,” he said.
He called on the Federal Government, Borno State Government, security agencies and other stakeholders involved in the rescue efforts to intensify operations aimed at securing the victims’ release.
“It is a responsibility that rests on their shoulders. We urge them to do something to rescue the abducted persons because it is long overdue,” Bakeni said.
The latest appeal comes amid repeated calls for action over the abducted children. UNICEF also called for urgent efforts to secure the release of about 78 schoolchildren in August, while families of the victims have continued to demand government intervention.
The 78 children were abducted in two separate attacks on schools in Askira-Uba.
On May 16, 2026, 42 pupils and students were abducted after suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School. The incident was confirmed at the time by local lawmakers, who reported that 42 people had been taken.
On June 29, suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, where students were taking their National Examinations Council examinations. Thirty-six students and a teacher were reportedly abducted during the attack.
Reports from the affected communities have continued to indicate that the 78 schoolchildren remain unaccounted for. Families have previously appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for intensified rescue efforts.
Bakeni said CAN would continue praying for peace in Borno and the safe return of those still in captivity.
The association’s appeal comes as the families of the abducted children continue to endure prolonged uncertainty over their whereabouts and welfare.
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