Pope Leo XIV has voiced profound concern and sorrow over the recent wave of kidnappings affecting priests, worshippers, students, and other vulnerable groups across parts of Nigeria and Cameroon. In his address, he described the ongoing attacks on religious and educational institutions as deeply troubling and a direct threat to the safety and well-being of countless civilians who seek sanctuary and guidance in these places.
During his remarks, the Pope highlighted that the abductions not only endanger the physical lives of those affected but also strike a severe blow to the morale and spiritual fabric of communities. “I am profoundly saddened to hear of the growing number of incidents targeting churches, schools, and religious communities,” he said, emphasizing the emotional and psychological toll on both the victims and their families.
Pope Leo made a heartfelt plea for the immediate and safe release of all hostages, urging government authorities and security agencies to take swift and decisive measures to secure freedom for those captured. “I feel great pain, especially for the young men and women who have been abducted, and for their families who endure unimaginable distress. I make a heartfelt appeal for their immediate release and call upon the authorities to act promptly,” he added.
He further called attention to the broader context of insecurity in West and Central Africa, where rising banditry, insurgent activities, and violent crimes have increasingly endangered civilians. The Pope underscored that these attacks disproportionately affect students, clergy, and other vulnerable members of society who rely on institutions of learning and faith for protection and guidance.
In addition to urging local and regional authorities to strengthen protective measures, Pope Leo appealed to the international Christian community to unite in prayer for the victims and their families. “Let us pray for our brothers and sisters, and that churches and schools may remain safe havens of hope and security,” he said. He emphasized the importance of fostering solidarity, compassion, and global awareness to address the humanitarian crisis and ensure the safety of civilians in affected regions.
The Pope’s statement comes at a time when communities are calling for increased attention to humanitarian support, stronger law enforcement responses, and preventive strategies to curb the rising threat of kidnappings and violent crimes. His intervention has reignited conversations on the urgent need for coordinated regional and international efforts to protect civilians, particularly children, students, and religious workers, from further harm.
As families of the kidnapped await news, Pope Leo’s appeal has brought renewed attention to the moral, spiritual, and social responsibilities of governments, faith-based organizations, and international partners in safeguarding lives. His message serves as both a call to action and a reminder of the shared duty to uphold human dignity and protect those most at risk in Nigeria, Cameroon, and beyond.
Watch video below…
The moment Pope Leo appealed for the release of students and priests kidnapped in Nigeria and Cameroon today. pic.twitter.com/w33DTktGxH
— Ayodele (@ayowole_obi) November 23, 2025