A Nigerian Catholic priest of Kafanchan Diocese in the Middle Belt part of the country and Chaplain of Marian of Societies, Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye who was kidnapped 3 months ago by terrorists from his residence has finally regained his freedom just 12 days after intensive May Devotion prayers.
In a memo addressed to the priests, religious and laity of the Diocese and signed by the Chancellor, Very Fr. Jacob Shanet, Bishop Julius Yakubu Kundi had requested “special prayers for his release and for the conversion of his abductors during this year’s May devotion.”
Fr. Nathaniel served as Chaplain of the Marian Society
We reported that the statement underscored the pastoral role of the abducted priest, emphasising his devotion to Our Lady.
“Since Fr. Nathaniel serves as Chaplain of the Marian Society and coordinates the May and October devotions,” it stated.
The prelate called on the faithful to pray for the unconditional release of victims of abductions in Nigeria, for the consolation of their families and all those affected by abduction, and “For lasting peace and safety in our Diocese and Nigeria.”
He also asked the faithful to pray for the conversion and repentance of the abductors, stating that “God’s mercy should touch them.”
Meanwhile, reacting to the priest’s release as an expression of answered prayers, the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Julius Yakubu Kundi, in a statement signed by the Chancellor of the Diocese Very Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet on 12 May 2026 stated that Fr. Asuwaye has been released and is safe and receiving care while underlining the Bishop’s gratitude to God who made the release of the abducted priest possible.
“We are pleased to inform you that Fr. Nathaniel is now safe and receiving care. He is in stable condition, remains in good spirits, and appreciates your prayers and support.
“The Bishop, Most Rev. Julius Yakubu Kundi, together with the priests and laity of Kafanchan Diocese, glorify God for his wonders and express heartfelt gratitude for the immense support received,” the statement read in part.
The released abducted priest “is now safe and receiving care.”
Expressing gratitude to people, on behalf of the faithful of the Diocese the Bishop said, “We especially acknowledge your dedication to prayer, the steadfast care of Rev. Fr. Nathaniel’s family and the relentless show of love of all the faithful and the entire people of goodwill who offered prayers and support during this challenging period.”
The released priest, Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye.
Describing the health condition of liberated priest, he stated that the released abducted priest “is now safe and receiving care. He is in stable condition, remains in good spirits, and appreciates your prayers and support.”
Recall that Fr. Nathaniel was kidnapped three months ago on 7 February 2026 from his residence by terrorists.
Recently, the Diocese released a memo on 29 April 2026 seeking all the faithful in the Diocese to dedicate the 2026 May devotion for prayers and rosary for the safe release of the kidnapped cleric and other captives.
In the memo which sought the faithful to dedicate the prayers for the safe release of the abducted priest and other victims, the Bishop also invited the faithful to pray for the conversion of the terrorists.
Following the Bishop’s invitation to prayer and devotion, 12 days into the May devotion, the prayer of the Diocese was answered and Fr. Asuwaye was safely released from the hands of his captors.
In appreciation to God, Bishop Kundi enjoined the faithful to remain steadfast in faith, united in prayer for Divine sustenance in the Diocese, while calling on them to keep watch over one another.
“May the Lord continue to unite and sustain us. As we rejoice in this moment of answered prayers, let us remain steadfast in faith, united as one family, and supportive of one another. May we continue to watch over each other with vigilance and compassion,” the enjoined.
