Nigeria: Freed Chibok Girls Finally Reunite with Families
Emotions ran high in Nigeria’s capital of Abuja over the weekend as the 82 girls who were recently released by Boko Haram finally reunited with their families.
The girls were released on the 7th of May after the government released five Boko Haram militants in exchange for the release of the girls.
Since they were released more than two weeks ago, the girls were under the care of the Nigerian government and were being treated for various medical and psychological afflictions.
During their time under government care, the names of the girls were released to the public, so that family members could prepare to come and collect their girls.
Hundreds of people made their way to Abuja on Saturday to witness the girls reunite with their families after three years.
One woman, whose daughter was among those freed, speaking through tears of joy, told reporters at the scene that it felt like Christmas.
“I am really happy today, I am Christmas and New Year, I am very happy and I thank God [sic],” she said.
This month has seen the largest group of girls freed as of yet.
The Nigerian government has said that they are working around the clock to secure the release of the remaining girls.
It is estimated that there are still 113 girls being held captive by Boko Haram.
“Our joy is never complete until we see the complete 113, because one Chibok girl matters to all Chibok people,” another parent told reporters.
Image: One of rescued Chibok School Girls with her Mother during their reunion in Abuja on Saturday (20/5/17. 02683//20/5/2017/JAU/NAN) [online image] (2017) sourced on 23 May 2017 from https://www.bellanaija.com/2017/05/recently-released-chibok-girls-reunite-with-their-parents-in-abuja-photos/
