Gunmen Abduct 52 Catholic School Students in Nigeria Amid Rising Attacks on Christians

ABUJA, Nigeria — November 21, 2025 — Armed assailants kidnapped 52 students from a Catholic school in Nigeria, officials said, marking the latest in a string of violent attacks targeting Christian communities and educational institutions in the country.

The incident occurred at a boarding school located in a region frequently affected by kidnappings and militant activity. According to authorities, the gunmen stormed the school compound, abducting dozens of students before fleeing the scene. Security forces have launched an operation to locate and rescue the captives.

This attack adds to a growing pattern of violence against Christian groups and schools in Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common. In recent months, several churches and boarding schools have been targeted, resulting in numerous abductions and heightened insecurity.

Officials have not yet disclosed the identities of the kidnappers or their motives, but such attacks are often linked to criminal gangs or insurgent groups operating in the region. The government has faced criticism for its inability to prevent these incidents and protect vulnerable communities.

The Catholic Church in Nigeria has condemned the abduction and called for urgent action to ensure the safety of its members. Church leaders have expressed concern over the growing threat to religious institutions and the impact on education.

Nigeria’s security challenges are compounded by a complex mix of ethnic, religious, and economic factors that fuel violence in various parts of the country. Kidnappings for ransom have become a lucrative enterprise for armed groups, leading to repeated attacks on schools, churches, and other civilian targets.

The government has pledged to intensify efforts to combat kidnappings and improve security, but progress has been slow amid ongoing instability. Parents and communities continue to live in fear as schools, traditionally seen as safe spaces, become targets.

This latest abduction underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of violence and protect educational institutions. International organizations and human rights groups have urged Nigerian authorities to take decisive measures to safeguard children and uphold their right to education.

As the search for the kidnapped students continues, families and communities remain anxious about their safety and the broader implications for peace and stability in the region.