The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Borno State has issued an urgent plea for the rescue of 78 schoolchildren who have been held captive for over 100 days. This call was made by the state CAN Chairman, Most Reverend John Bakeni, during a prayer session in Maiduguri, marking the association's 50th anniversary.

During the event, Bakeni expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of abductions in the state, describing the celebration as a somber occasion due to the ongoing insecurity and economic hardships faced by many residents. "How do you celebrate when your children are in captivity?" he questioned, highlighting the emotional turmoil experienced by families of the victims.

The abductions in question include a significant incident on May 16, when 42 students were taken from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira/Uba Local Government Area by suspected Boko Haram militants. A subsequent attack on June 29 at Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, resulted in the kidnapping of 36 students and a teacher, bringing the total number of missing children to 78.

Bakeni emphasized the pain and trauma that the families of the abducted children are enduring, urging leaders at both the national and state levels to take decisive action. He noted that the association is actively engaging in advocacy to ensure that the plight of the victims is not forgotten. "We have reached out to our leaders to do whatever they can to see that our brothers and sisters who are in captivity are set free," he stated.

The CAN chairman also called on government officials and security agencies to intensify their efforts in rescuing all victims. He stressed that the responsibility for their safety rests on the shoulders of those in power. "It is a responsibility that rests on their shoulders, so let them do something to rescue them because it is long overdue," Bakeni appealed.

Despite the challenges, Bakeni assured that the association remains committed to prayer and advocacy for peace and safety in the region. He expressed hope that divine intervention would lead to the safe return of the abducted children, stating, "As people of faith, we always give God thanks even in the midst of challenges. We believe that God will answer our prayers."

The ongoing insecurity in Borno State has left many communities vulnerable, with residents caught between the threats of violence and economic struggles. The call from CAN highlights the urgent need for a coordinated response to the crisis affecting the region's youth and their families.