106 Chibok schoolgirls return home, get Federal Government scholarship at AUN

The Federal Government yesterday granted scholarship to the 106 Chibok schoolgirls so far released by the Boko Haram insurgents.The girls, who were abducted while writing their West African Certificate Examinations (WASC), are expected to study at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, for their tertiary education.

Minister for Women Affairs and Social Development, Aisha Al-Hassan, disclosed this yesterday at the send forth in honour of the girls.The girls, who were in high spirit as they danced throughout the event, were however, expected to undergo foundational classes at the University before the main admission into 100 Level.

“The foundation course to be undertaken by the girls is equivalent to pre- degree programme offered in some Nigerian universities. This is aimed at bringing them up to standard,” she stated.

According to the Minister, the girls would be leaving Abuja immediately for their hometown, Chibok, to enable them spend about two weeks with their parents and families before proceeding to school.

The emotion-laden Minister noted that within the eight months of rehabilitation the girls spent in Abuja, they have become greater part of her life.While assuring them of regular visit to their school, she urged them to put the events of the past behind as they begin a new phase of their lives.

On the fate of the remaining schoolgirls yet to be rescued, Al-Hassan assured that they would be released as negotiation was already in progress.“The good news is that very soon, we will have our remaining girls released. That is to say that negotiation is already on and we will see the light at the end of the tunnel. I assure you, very soon, we will have our remaining daughters back.”

The Boko Haram insurgents had released 21 girls in October 2016 and another 82 last May, while three had earlier escaped from their abductors. However, 113 are yet to be rescued.

Speaking at the event yesterday, Chairman, Chibok Local Council Area, Yaga Yarakawa, stated that there were no Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) in Chibok as those affected by the attacks have returned to their respective homes.