The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has welcomed the rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, while urging the Federal Government to sustain efforts until all Nigerians held by terrorists and bandits regain their freedom.

In a statement on Sunday signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN described the victims’ release after 56 days in captivity as a moment of thanksgiving, saying the development brought relief to affected families.

The victims were abducted on May 15 when armed men attacked communities in Oriire Local Government Area, including Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota, near Ogbomoso.

CAN thanked God for preserving the lives of the pupils and teachers, describing their experience as an ordeal no child or teacher should endure.

“The Christian Association of Nigeria joins the people of Oyo State and indeed all well-meaning Nigerians in thanking Almighty God for the safe rescue of the pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area after 56 difficult days in captivity,” the statement read.

The association commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilantes for their roles in securing the victims’ release.

CAN also praised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for his support to the affected families and welcomed his commitment to providing rehabilitation for the rescued pupils and teachers.

However, the Christian body said the rescue should not overshadow the plight of other Nigerians still in captivity across the country.

It expressed concern over families in states such as Borno and Niger who are still awaiting the return of their loved ones, stressing that every victim of kidnapping deserves equal attention and protection.

“Their pain is no less real because it attracts fewer headlines. Their tears are no less bitter because the cameras have moved elsewhere,” CAN said.

Quoting Psalm 82:3, the association called for stronger protection of vulnerable Nigerians, regardless of their location, ethnicity or religion.

CAN urged authorities and humanitarian organisations to provide counselling, medical care and emotional support for the rescued victims as they recover from their experience.

It also called on Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies and praying for those still in captivity, stressing that the nation’s celebration would only be complete when all abducted citizens regain their freedom.

“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,” Archbishop Okoh said.