The Catholic community in Nigeria and across the world is celebrating the safe rescue of Reverend Father Alphonsus Afina and 10 other abductees from Boko Haram captivity, following a successful operation by the Department of State Services (DSS) in collaboration with the Nigerian Army.
Father Afina, a Catholic priest of the Maiduguri Diocese who served in Alaska, USA, from 2017 to 2024, was kidnapped on June 1, 2025, while traveling from Mubi in Adamawa State to Maiduguri, Borno State. His convoy was ambushed near Gwoza by Boko Haram insurgents, with a rocket-propelled grenade striking one of the vehicles and killing an occupant.
The daring rescue was carried out on Monday, July 21, 2025, by DSS operatives supported by military personnel. A total of 11 victims, including Father Afina and 10 women, were freed without any ransom payment. All the victims were reported to be in good condition.
Bishop John Bakeni, Catholic Bishop of Maiduguri Diocese and Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Borno State, expressed deep gratitude to the security agencies. He lauded their “gallantry and professionalism,” emphasizing that the Catholic faithful worldwide rejoiced at the news of Father Afina’s release after nearly two harrowing months in captivity.
“The courage and intelligence of the DSS and our armed forces give us hope that Nigeria can win the fight against terrorism,” Bishop Bakeni said.
In a related operation, DSS personnel in Zamfara State, with military support, rescued 32 kidnap victims in Shinkafi Local Government Area. The victims, including 27 women and five boys, had been held hostage for periods ranging from two to four months. They have since been handed over to the Zamfara State Government for medical attention and documentation.
These coordinated efforts have been widely commended as a positive step in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insurgency and kidnapping. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens, particularly in vulnerable regions.
