The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has welcomed the rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing their return after 56 days in captivity as a moment of thanksgiving while urging the Federal Government not to relent in efforts to secure the freedom of other Nigerians still being held by kidnappers and terrorist groups.
In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN thanked God for preserving the lives of the victims and congratulated their families on the successful reunion.
“For the children who have returned, for the teachers who have been reunited with their families, and for parents whose tears have given way to joy, this is a day of profound gratitude,” the association said.
CAN also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Amotekun Corps, local hunters, vigilantes and others involved in the rescue operation.
The association said reports indicating that the operation was driven by patience, credible intelligence and a determination to protect innocent lives demonstrated the value of coordinated security efforts.
It also praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for supporting the affected families throughout the period of captivity and welcomed the state government’s commitment to providing rehabilitation for the rescued pupils and teachers.
While celebrating the successful rescue, CAN said many Nigerian families remain burdened by the continued captivity of their loved ones.
The association noted that although families in Oriire could now celebrate the return of their children, others in states such as Borno and Niger were still waiting and praying for similar news.
“Their pain is no less real because it attracts fewer headlines. Their tears are no less bitter because the cameras have moved elsewhere,” the statement said.
CAN stressed that every child deserves equal protection regardless of location, ethnicity or religion, adding that compassion for victims of insecurity should never be selective.
It urged authorities to build on the success recorded in Oyo by intensifying efforts to rescue all Nigerians still being held by terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups.
The association further emphasised that rescue alone was not enough, calling on governments, faith-based organisations and humanitarian groups to provide counselling, medical care and psychological support for the rescued children, teachers and their families as they recover from the trauma of captivity.
CAN also reiterated the need to restore confidence in the nation’s education system, saying schools must once again become safe environments for learning rather than targets for criminal attacks.
It urged Nigerians to continue praying for those still in captivity, support security personnel and stand in solidarity with affected families.
The association pledged to continue praying for the recovery of the rescued victims, the safety of security personnel and the successful rescue of all remaining captives, adding that true celebration would come only when Nigerians can live and travel freely without fear.
