By Palang Paul
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Borno State has declared three days of fasting and prayer for the safe release of 78 schoolchildren abducted by Boko Haram terrorists.
The prayer exercise, scheduled for August 14 to 16, 2026, is aimed at seeking divine intervention for the children and other victims still held captive across the state.
The programme, themed “A Call for Three Days Fasting and Prayers for the Safe Return of Our Kidnapped Brethren,” was announced in a statement signed by Borno CAN Secretary, Senior Apostle Joshua Akeredolu Michael.
According to CAN, the 78 schoolchildren, abducted in Mussa, Lassa, in Askira-Uba Local Government Area, have remained in captivity for more than two months.
The Christian body said the prayer initiative would also cover victims abducted from Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area and those kidnapped along the Biu-Buratai Road while travelling to Maiduguri in April 2026.
The directive was issued under the leadership of the Borno CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Dr. John Bogna Bakeni, as the association appealed to Christians across the state to participate actively in the three-day spiritual exercise.
CAN directed church leaders to mobilise their congregations for the prayers, with individual churches expected to conduct the exercise within their respective congregations and conclude it during Sunday services on August 16.
Beyond the spiritual intervention, the association called on the Federal Government, Borno State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the immediate and safe release of the abducted children and other victims.
CAN expressed hope that the combined prayers and intensified security efforts would result in the safe return of those still in captivity.
The development underscores the continuing security and humanitarian challenges confronting communities in Borno, where years of Boko Haram insurgency have left thousands dead, displaced and vulnerable to abduction.
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