Sun Nov 23 17:38:42 UTC 2025: Headline: Pope Leo XIV Pleads for Release of 300+ Hostages Taken in Nigerian School Kidnappings

Vatican City – November 23, 2025 – Pope Leo XIV today made a fervent appeal for the immediate release of over 300 students and teachers kidnapped from Catholic schools in Nigeria. Speaking after a Mass for the Jubilee of Choirs in Saint Peter’s Square, the Pope expressed his “immense sadness” over the mass abductions, describing them as one of the largest in the country’s history.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) reported that the kidnappings occurred in raids on two schools: a secondary school in Kebbi state where 25 girls were abducted on Monday, and St Mary’s co-education school in Niger state, which was attacked early Friday. The Pope’s plea comes amidst a concerning rise in violence targeting Christians in Nigeria.

“I make a heartfelt appeal for the immediate release of the hostages,” Pope Leo XIV said, voicing his deep sorrow, “especially for the many young boys and girls kidnapped and for their anguished families.” He further implored for churches and schools to “always and everywhere remain places of safety and hope.”

The kidnappings are taking place against a backdrop of rising tensions, including an attack on a church in western Nigeria where two were killed and dozens abducted, and threats of military action from US President Donald Trump, who cited the alleged persecution of Christians by radical Islamists in Nigeria.

Nigeria is still grappling with the trauma of the 2014 Boko Haram kidnapping of nearly 300 girls in Chibok. The Pope’s plea underscores the urgent need for the hostages’ safe return and highlights the ongoing security challenges facing the country.

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