One Of Two Kidnapped Christian Missionaries Freed.
One of two kidnapped Christian missionaries in northwest Nigeria has regained his freedom.
Ojo John, a 33-year-old Christian worker with Nupe Missions, was released on Monday, May 26. He and a colleague, Silvanus Abu, were kidnapped on the night of May 21 from their mission station in Kebbi State.
The pair had just concluded a discipleship class before being seized by unidentified armed men, according to the ministry. They were serving among the Zabarmawa people, a predominantly Muslim ethnic group in the region.
John, also known as Mallam Yahaya, made contact with ministry leaders early Monday morning. “He is alive and making his way to safety,” said Moses Solomon, a spokesperson for the group. “This is the doing of the Lord, and it is marvellous in our eyes.”
The circumstances of his release remain unclear. The group did not disclose whether a ransom was paid.
While John is safe, concern remains for 26-year-old Silvanus Abu, who is still being held. The ministry continues to call for urgent prayers and support.
“While we rejoice, our hearts are still heavy,” said Solomon. “We are believing God for a complete deliverance.”
A disturbing phone call from the kidnappers last week confirmed the missionaries’ abduction. The caller threatened harm if search efforts continued. “Stop looking for them, or you will find their dead bodies,” the voice warned.
Despite the threat, the ministry says it will not back down. They have urged Christians worldwide to pray for Abu’s safety, calling on believers to speak Scriptures such as Psalm 91 and Isaiah 43 over him.
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Both men are from Christian families in Kogi and Niger states. They had committed themselves to sharing the gospel in a region known for hostility toward Christians.
The Zabarmawa, also called Zarma, are among the least-reached people groups in Nigeria. Though many identify as Muslim, their religious practices often include animism, spirit worship, and magic rituals.
Northern Nigeria has long been dangerous for Christians. According to the 2025 World Watch List by Open Doors, nearly 70 per cent of Christians killed for their faith globally last year were Nigerians.
The region remains under threat from jihadist groups like Boko Haram, ISWAP, and the emerging Lakurawa faction. These armed groups frequently target churches, missionaries, and farming communities.
Nupe Missions says its workers are aware of the risks but remain committed to their calling. For now, the ministry continues to hope that the second missionary will soon be released.
“God has started this rescue,” Solomon said. “And we trust He will finish it.”
Content Credit: Ajibola Emmanuel
Image Credit: Christian Daily International.com
