The United States has condemned the mass abductions of schoolchildren in Nigeria.

The American government also urges President Bola Tinubu to “act decisively” to protect Christians from terrorists.

U.S. Bureau of African Affairs, in a statement on Monday, condemned the abduction of 25 schoolgirls from Kebbi State and the abduction of over 300 students and staff of St Mary’s school, Papiri in Niger.

“The United States condemns the mass abduction of reportedly over 300 students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, Nigeria and the kidnapping, just days before, of 25 schoolgirls from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State,” the statement said.

While charging the Nigerian government to go after terrorists behind mass abductions across the country, the U.S. Bureau of African Affairs said Mr Tinubu should act decisively to ensure Christians are protected and safe to practise their faith without fear of terror.

“Those responsible for these crimes must be swiftly captured and held accountable. The Nigerian government must act decisively and do more to protect Christians and ensure Nigerians can live, learn, and practice their religion freely without fear or terror,” the statement said.