In a powerful display of gratitude, a senior Catholic priest in Niger State has publicly commended Nigeria's leadership for the successful and safe rescue of dozens of abducted schoolchildren. The emotional tribute took place during a Thanksgiving ceremony, highlighting a significant security victory and interfaith cooperation.
Emotional Thanksgiving in Kontagora
The heartfelt event was held at the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora on 2 December 2025. A senior priest from St. Mary’s Parish in Papiri, located within the Agwara Local Government Area, addressed a gathering that included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who had flown in from Abuja specifically for the meeting with clergy and the families of the rescued children.
In his remarks, the cleric directly turned to Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, quoting prominent social commentator Reno Omokri to express his appreciation. "One of your great friends, Reno Omokri, said, and I quote: 'If goodness can be found in one person, that person is His Excellency Mallam Nuhu Ribadu,'" the priest stated, using Omokri's exact words.
Praise for Leadership and Integrity
The priest connected this praise directly to the actions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that Omokri had made the statement while appreciating the President for nominating Ribadu and for the good work being done. He highlighted Ribadu's personal commitment, saying, "Despite your tight schedule, with your team, you left everything and you flew down to Kontagora so that you could identify with us."
"You have shown to us what Reno Omokri has said; you are a man of your words, a man of integrity, a man who always loves to make a difference," the priest concluded. His powerful words were met with prolonged applause from the assembled bishops, priests, and community leaders, underscoring the deep relief and thankfulness within the Christian community.
A Successful Rescue Operation
The ceremony celebrated the resolution of a harrowing incident that began on 12 November 2025, when armed bandits abducted 58 pupils and staff from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri.
The successful operation to free the captives was a coordinated effort involving:
- The Nigerian military
- The Nigeria Police Force
- Local vigilante groups
All these forces worked under the direct supervision of the Office of the National Security Adviser. Critically, the rescue was achieved without the payment of any ransom and, most importantly, without any loss of life among the children or staff.
The priest also recalled that during the crisis, Reno Omokri had publicly insisted that "all lives matter" and expressed firm confidence that the children would be rescued safely—a belief that has now been fully vindicated.
This event stands as a notable moment of interfaith collaboration in Niger State, demonstrating how unified efforts are pivotal in the ongoing fight against insecurity and banditry in the region.
