In a daring operation, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued Reverend Father Alphonsus Afina, a Catholic priest kidnapped by Boko Haram insurgents on June 1, 2025.
The priest, who served as a missionary in Alaska, USA, was abducted along with others while traveling on the Limankara-Gwoza highway in Borno State.
Details of the Kidnapping and Rescue
- Kidnapping: Father Afina was traveling from Mubi in Adamawa State to Maiduguri when his convoy was ambushed near a military checkpoint. A rocket-propelled grenade struck one of the vehicles, killing one passenger and abducting others.
- Rescue: A joint operation by DSS operatives and Nigerian Army troops led to the rescue of Father Afina and 10 women on Monday, July 21. No ransom was paid for their release.
Reaction from the Catholic Community
- Relief and Joy: Catholic Bishop of Maiduguri Diocese, Most Reverend John Bakeni, described the rescue as “a moment of profound relief and joy for the Church and all lovers of peace and justice.”
- Appreciation: Bishop Bakeni commended the professionalism and gallantry of the DSS and military forces involved in the operation.
Implications and Concerns
- Security: The kidnapping and rescue highlight the ongoing security challenges in Borno State and the need for continued collaboration between security agencies and communities to defeat insurgency.
- Humanitarian Crisis: The incident underscores the humanitarian crisis caused by Boko Haram’s activities in the region, with many civilians affected by kidnappings, attacks, and displacement.