Maiduguri — August 9, 2026: The Borno State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared a three-day fasting and prayer programme seeking the safe release of 78 schoolchildren abducted by Boko Haram terrorists in Askira-Uba Local Government Area.
In a statement issued by the state CAN Secretary, Senior Apostle Joshua Akeredolu Michael, the association said the children have remained in captivity for more than two months.
The programme, themed “A Call for Three Days Fasting and Prayers for the Safe Return of Our Kidnapped Brethren,” will run from Friday, August 14, to Sunday, August 16, 2026.
The declaration was made under the leadership of the state CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Dr. John Bogna Bakeni. It also covers other victims still held by terrorists, including those abducted in Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area, and travellers seized along the Biu-Buratai Road while heading to Maiduguri in April 2026, as well as kidnapped Christians and other residents from Mussa, Lassa and various parts of the state.
Akeredolu explained that the call has become necessary so that Christians across Borno can seek divine intervention for the release of their brethren still living in the dens of their abductors. He urged all church leaders to encourage their congregations to participate fully. Each church is expected to observe the fast and prayers in its own congregation and conclude the exercise during Sunday services on August 16.
“All Church leaders are urged to encourage members to key into this fasting and prayers, as we serve a living God that answers prayers,” the statement said. “It’s our earnest prayer that as we pray, God in His infinite mercy shall deliver all kidnapped victims in the State and Nation at large.”
CAN also called on the Federal Government, the Borno State Government and relevant security agencies to intensify efforts towards securing the safe release of all kidnapped victims in the state.
The 78 schoolchildren were taken in separate attacks on schools in Askira-Uba. Forty-two pupils were abducted from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in mid-May 2026, while 36 students (and one teacher) were seized from Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in late June. The Borno State Government has previously confirmed receipt of a proof-of-life video of some of the children, but they remain in captivity.
The spiritual exercise comes amid continued concern over the prolonged detention of the minors and other victims of insurgent abductions in the North-East.
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