A group of Christians in Northern Nigeria has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for the arrest of five suspects reportedly linked to the November 2025 abduction of students and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State.
The commendation was conveyed in a statement issued on Monday by the Northern Christian Association (NCA).
Security sources disclosed over the weekend that the DSS arrested five individuals, including two Nigeriens, and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition from them.
In the statement signed by the association’s Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the group said citizens of good conscience should not only criticise the government when it falls short of expectations but also acknowledge it when it delivers.
According to him, the arrest of those allegedly involved in supplying arms to criminal elements underscores the importance of sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated security operations in addressing insecurity across the country.
He noted that dismantling networks that provide logistics and weapons to terrorists is crucial to weakening their capacity to carry out attacks on innocent citizens and vulnerable communities.
While recognising the sacrifices of security personnel who continue to risk their lives despite being frequent targets of terrorist attacks, the NCA urged security agencies to ensure thorough investigations and that all those connected to the crime are brought to justice.
The group emphasised that holding perpetrators accountable would serve as a deterrent to individuals and groups seeking to destabilise the country.
Hayab also urged the DSS, led by its Director-General, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, to remain steadfast in its commitment to protecting the nation. He expressed confidence in sustained collaboration among security agencies and called on communities and stakeholders to support efforts toward building a peaceful, secure, and united Nigeria.
The NCA Chairman further called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts against terrorism and other forms of violent crime in order to restore public confidence and strengthen national security.