By Anan Geolengs
The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has thanked God for the safe rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.
CAN also urged government not to forget Nigerians still held by terrorists and bandits.
In a statement signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, and released on Sunday, July 12, 2026, the association described the rescue as a day of “profound gratitude” for families reunited after weeks of anguish.
“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. We give God all the glory for preserving their lives through an ordeal no child or teacher should ever experience,” Okoh said.
*Commendation for Security Agencies and Oyo Govt*
CAN commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Armed Forces, Police, DSS, Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilantes for the operation.
“The reports that the operation was guided by patience, credible intelligence and a determination to protect innocent lives are reassuring and deserve recognition,” the statement said.
Okoh also praised Governor Seyi Makinde for standing with the affected families and for assuring support for the rehabilitation of the rescued victims.
“We are encouraged by his assurance that the Oyo State Government will support the rehabilitation of the rescued children and teachers as they begin to rebuild their lives,” he said.
*“Don’t Forget Those Still in Captivity”*
However, CAN cautioned against selective celebration, noting that many other families across Nigeria are still waiting for their loved ones.
“Today, parents in Oriire will hold their children again after weeks of anxious waiting. We rejoice with them. But there are mothers and fathers in Borno, Niger and other parts of our country who will still go to bed praying that the next knock on the door will bring news that their own children are coming home,” Okoh said.
“Their pain is no less real because it attracts fewer headlines. Their tears are no less bitter because the cameras have moved elsewhere.”
Citing Psalm 82:3, the CAN president said every child carries equal dignity before God and that “our compassion must never become selective, and our concern must never depend on geography, ethnicity or religion.”
*Call for Healing and Safer Schools*
CAN urged government, faith communities and humanitarian organisations to provide counselling, medical and emotional support for the rescued pupils, teachers and their families.
“Our schools must once again become places of learning, not places of fear. No parent should have to choose between giving a child an education and keeping that child alive,” the statement added.
The association pledged to continue praying for the recovery of the rescued, for security personnel, and for the release of those still in captivity.
“Our celebration will be complete not only when those in captivity are released but also when all Nigerians can move about freely without fear,” Okoh said.
