An Irish religious leadership body has called for the immediate release of children and teachers abducted from a Catholic school in Niger State, Nigeria.
The Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland (AMRI) said it fully supports efforts to secure the safe return of those kidnapped from St Mary’s Catholic School in the Papiri community on November 21, 2025. The school is run by the Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles.
In a letter addressed to Nigeria’s ambassador to Ireland, Her Excellency Ibiyemi Ajiboye-Roberts, AMRI appealed to the Nigerian authorities to prioritise the safety and security of school communities, particularly in regions affected by conflict.
AMRI noted Ireland’s long-standing missionary links with Nigeria and said it holds a particular concern for both religious personnel serving in the country and the wider Nigerian population.
The association represents the leaders of 155 Catholic religious institutes, missionary organisations and societies of apostolic life in Ireland. The Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles are among its member congregations.
AMRI said it continues to stand in solidarity with the affected community and urges swift action to ensure the release and protection of all those abducted.
