Nigeria: UNICEF welcomes release of 80 Chibok schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram

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After more than two years of being held hostage by Boko Haram, in northeast Nigeria, one of the Chibok girls recounts the horrific conditions they experienced. Photo: UNICEF Nigeria

7 May 2017 – The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) today welcomed yesterday’s release of more than 80 of the Chibok schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram insurgents over three years ago.

It is heartening to know that the girls will be returning to their families who have been waiting for this day

&#8220It is heartening to know that the girls will be returning to their families who have been waiting for this day. They will face a long and difficult process to rebuild their lives after the indescribable horror and trauma they have suffered at the hands of Boko Haram,&#8221 said UNICEF Nigeria Acting Representative Pernille Ironside in a statement.

She said UNICEF is on standby to support the Nigerian authorities to provide the comprehensive psychosocial support, help reunite the girls with their families and make sure they can continue their education in a safe environment.

&#8220UNICEF calls on Boko Haram to end all grave violations against children, especially the abduction of children and the sexual abuse and forced marriage of girls,&#8221 she said.