As Nigeria marks a decade since the tragic abduction of 276 schoolgirls in Chibok, Borno State, the United States has reiterated its unwavering support for the country in combating terrorism and safeguarding its populace.
April 14, 2024, marked 10 years since 276 girls of the Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, a community in Borno State, were abducted by the Boko Haram terrorist group on the same date in 2014, during the tenure of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
In an October 2022 status report by the BringBackOurGirls campaign group, of the 276 kidnapped girls, 57 escaped captivity after jumping from the trucks on which they were being transported, 107 of them were released, 16 were rescued by the military, and 96 of them remained missing.
However, the leader of the Chibok Parents Association, Yakubu Nkeki, told our correspondent on Thursday that 138 of the girls had been rescued or released, while 82 of them were still in captivity.
The US, in a press release by the Head of Communication, US Embassy in Abuja, Aisha Gambari, on Sunday, noted that it stands alongside the Nigerian government in its pursuit of bolstering security, holding accountable those responsible for attacks, and ensuring the welfare of its citizens.
“The United States remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism and protect its citizens.
“We continue to support the Nigerian government’s ongoing efforts to make Nigeria more secure, to hold perpetrators of attacks accountable, and to ensure the safety and well-being of all its citizens.
“The partnership between the United States and Nigeria is built on a foundation of shared values and common goals. We will continue to work together to promote peace, security, and stability in the region and to support initiatives that foster education, economic growth, and human rights,” the statement read in part.
The US further stated that it remained steadfast in its solidarity with Nigeria in countering extremism and forging a brighter, safer future for its people.
“As we mark one decade since this terrible act, we reaffirm our support for the survivors, their families, and all those affected by terrorism.
“The United States stands with Nigeria in its fight against extremism and its commitment to creating a safer, more prosperous future for all its people,” the statement added.
