Nigeria: Call for prayers for priest and ten parishioners kidnapped in February

Father Nathaniel Asukawaye

Source: Fides

Bishop Julius Yakubu Kundi of Kafanchan, Kaduna State, has issued an to all priests, religious, and laity of the diocese to pray for the release of Father Nathaniel Asukawaye and ten parishioners who were kidnapped by armed men on February 7, 2026.

At least three people were killed in the attack on Holy Trinity Church in Karku, in the local government area of Kaura, Kaduna State.

In his message for the Marian month of May, Bishop Kundi asks for prayers "for the conversion of the kidnappers."

The diocese said in a statement: "Since Father Nathaniel is a chaplain of the Marian Society and coordinates the devotions in May and October, the bishop requests special prayers for his release and the conversion of his captors during this year's May devotions."

Prayers are also requested for the unconditional release of other kidnapping victims, "especially those from our diocese."