Press Releases
Congressman Pete Sessions: Our Efforts to Ensure Safety of Lufkin Texas Students in Niger
July 28, 2023
WASHINGTON, D.C. – July 28, 2023 – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) today released the following statement regarding the safety of students from Harmony Hill Baptist Church, Lufkin, Texas, who are currently sheltered in Niger amidst an ongoing coup:
"I am concerned about the unrest in Niger, and my heart goes out to their people," said Congressman Sessions. "Furthermore, my immediate concern, and our community’s concern, is the safety of the students from Harmony Hill Baptist Church who are currently in the country.
I have been assured that the students are in a safe location, and they have plans to return home by scheduled commercial flight next week when the airport reopens. I affirm to the families of these students and the entire Lufkin community that my office is in constant contact with local and federal organizations, making every effort to ensure their safety as they take shelter during this time of turmoil.
The student's safety is our top priority. We are collaborating closely with the U.S. Department of State, City of Lufkin Mayor Mark Hicks, Senator John Cornyn (TX), Senator Ted Cruz (TX), Harmony Hill Baptist Church, and with the host organization on the ground, monitoring the situation and exploring all options to maintain the student's safety.
My thoughts and prayers are with the students and their families during this time. I encourage all Texans to keep these courageous students in their prayers as we work tirelessly to ensure their safe return.”
"I am concerned about the unrest in Niger, and my heart goes out to their people," said Congressman Sessions. "Furthermore, my immediate concern, and our community’s concern, is the safety of the students from Harmony Hill Baptist Church who are currently in the country.
I have been assured that the students are in a safe location, and they have plans to return home by scheduled commercial flight next week when the airport reopens. I affirm to the families of these students and the entire Lufkin community that my office is in constant contact with local and federal organizations, making every effort to ensure their safety as they take shelter during this time of turmoil.
The student's safety is our top priority. We are collaborating closely with the U.S. Department of State, City of Lufkin Mayor Mark Hicks, Senator John Cornyn (TX), Senator Ted Cruz (TX), Harmony Hill Baptist Church, and with the host organization on the ground, monitoring the situation and exploring all options to maintain the student's safety.
My thoughts and prayers are with the students and their families during this time. I encourage all Texans to keep these courageous students in their prayers as we work tirelessly to ensure their safe return.”
