Kaduna, Nigeria – Senator Sunday Katung, representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, has announced full scholarships for five victims of Bethel Baptist High School’s 2021 abduction.
He confirmed this commitment on Saturday during a Kaduna Baptist Conference fundraiser aimed at rebuilding the school’s damaged facilities.
Through his Sunday Marshall Education Foundation, Katung pledged to cover the students’ educational expenses from their current level through university graduation.
The initiative directly addresses long-term recovery needs for those impacted by the kidnapping.
The senator emphasized collaboration with stakeholders to ensure sustained support.
His announcement follows ongoing efforts to bolster education and security in Kaduna State following repeated abduction incidents targeting schools.
“My foundation will take full responsibility for their education from now until they graduate,” Katung stated during the event.
The Bethel Baptist High School abduction, which occurred on July 5, 2021, saw 121 students kidnapped by bandits.
The incident remains one of the most harrowing episodes in Nigeria’s ongoing battle with insecurity.
The students were released in batches, with the first group of 28 freed on July 25, 2021, after a ransom of N100 million was paid.
Subsequently, the bandits demanded an additional N80 million for the release of the remaining students.
Related Posts
“In January 2022, Joseph Hayab, chairman of Nigeria’s Christian Association (CAN) in Kaduna, announced that 120 abducted students had been freed.
This confirmation followed coordinated efforts to secure their release.”
The final victim, Treasure Ayuba, escaped captivity on November 2, 2023, bringing an end to the over-two-year-long ordeal.
The attack forced the temporary relocation of the school to Kaduna metropolis due to security concerns.
Despite these challenges, most of the abducted students have since graduated, while efforts continue to rebuild and restore the school.
Communities widely laud Senator Katung’s initiative for supporting insecurity victims through educational access.
By offering scholarships, this program creates hope and stability for survivors who overcame profound personal crises.
The Kaduna Baptist Conference’s fundraising initiative underscores the community’s resilience and commitment to rebuilding educational institutions affected by violence.
The senator’s contribution adds momentum to these efforts, reinforcing the importance of prioritizing education even in the face of adversity.
