Twelve of the Chibok schoolgirls abducted over a decade ago have graduated from the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, and the Federal Government is calling it a moment worth celebrating.
The graduation took place on Saturday during AUN’s 17th Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2026. The girls, who were among hundreds kidnapped from Chibok 12 years ago, had their university education sponsored by the Federal Government after regaining their freedom.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented at the event by the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, described the abduction of the Chibok girls as a painful chapter in Nigeria’s history, while noting how heartwarming it was to see 12 of them complete their university education. He also commended AUN for holding the girls to the same academic standards as every other student.
“To the girls, I assure you that your country has not finished its obligation to you,” Shettima said.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, echoed that assurance through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye. She made clear that the government, which has invested significantly in the girls since their recovery, has no intention of abandoning them now. She also thanked AUN for its role in giving the girls a proper education, describing the achievement as proof that adversity does not have to be the end of the road.
“There is nothing we can’t do if we come together as one great nation,” she said.
The 12 Chibok graduates were clearly the emotional highlight of the day’s ceremony. In separate interviews, they expressed joy and relief at reaching this milestone after everything they had been through.
AUN President (Vice Chancellor), Professor DeWayne Frazier, captured the moment perfectly in his commencement address.
“For the 12 Chibok girls who will walk across the commencement stage, this graduation is a sacred moment of triumph over fear, resilience over trauma, and hope over everything that once tried to silence your future,” he said.
Digital Operations Manager at The Students Forum Nigeria.
