Relief and celebration swept through the Catholic community in Southern Kaduna on Tuesday after Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye regained his freedom following three months in captivity.
The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed that the priest, who was abducted by gunmen in February 2026, has been released and is currently receiving medical care after enduring months in the hands of his captors.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on May 12, 2026, by the diocesan chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet.
Fr. Asuwaye was kidnapped on February 7, 2026, when heavily armed attackers stormed his residence in Karku, Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The priest was reportedly abducted alongside 10 parishioners from Holy Trinity Catholic Church during the deadly raid, which also claimed the lives of three people.
According to the Diocese, the cleric is now in stable condition and undergoing medical attention after his release.
“With profound gratitude to God and all who supported us, we announce the release of Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye from captivity after three months,” the statement read.
The Diocese thanked Christians, religious leaders and supporters across the country who stood by the Church throughout the difficult period with prayers and solidarity.
Church authorities disclosed that special prayer sessions and May devotions were organised continuously for the priest’s safe return.
The Diocese said the prayers and encouragement received from members of the public helped strengthen the family of the abducted priest and the wider Christian community during the ordeal.
Bishop Julius Yakubu Kundi of the Kafanchan Diocese also expressed appreciation to Nigerians for the overwhelming support shown since the abduction.
The Diocese urged residents of Kaduna State and other parts of the country to remain vigilant, united and prayerful amid the worsening security situation affecting many communities.
Kidnapping for ransom continues to pose a major security challenge across northern Nigeria, with religious leaders increasingly becoming targets of armed criminal groups and suspected terrorists.
