Twelve years after 276 schoolgirls were abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, by Boko Haram militants, 12 of the survivors are set to graduate from the American University of Nigeria, Yola.
Addressing journalists on Wednesday on the university campus, the President of AUN, Prof Dewayne Frazier, described the graduation of the Chibok survivors as a global success story.
“The graduation of several students who were formerly held captive in the Sambisa Forest symbolises more than academic achievement; it is a global testament to resilience, hope, and the indomitable human spirit.
“Their journey from captivity to a university degree has captured worldwide attention as a victory over adversity,” he said.
Frazier said the milestone validated AUN’s mission as a development-focused institution and demonstrated that it is possible to bridge the gap between trauma and higher education success.
“These graduates now stand as beacons of light for the North-East and the world. Their success sends a powerful message: education is the most proven tool for healing and transformation, capable of reclaiming lives and building a brighter, more secure future for Nigeria,” he added.
He also commended the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs for sponsoring the girls’ education at the university.
A total of 276 girls were abducted on April 14, 2014.
While 57 escaped on the night of the attack, and many others have been released or escaped over the years, more than 80 remain unaccounted for as of recent reports.
The incident also triggered the global #BringBackOurGirls campaign.
