By
Sakina Ahmed,
Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has celebrated the transformation of rescued Chibok girls from victims of tragedy into graduates, entrepreneurs and professionals contributing to Nigeria’s development.
The event featured 12 Chibok girls who graduated from the American University of Nigeria, Yola, in May 2026, alongside 18 others who completed skills acquisition and entrepreneurship training.
Another 33 girls were admitted into a Technical and Vocational Education and Training TVET programme, while 21 others are expected to graduate from the university in 2027.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Imaan Sulaiman, said the intervention demonstrates that empowerment through education, skills and economic opportunities restores dignity and promotes self-reliance.
Adamawa State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Neido Geoffrey, described the occasion as a celebration of resilience, noting that the Chibok girls are emerging as entrepreneurs and professionals across different fields.
Under the empowerment programme, the beneficiaries received one million naira each as entrepreneurship grants, alongside starter packs for sewing, tailoring and catering businesses.
Two hundred and twenty one parents of the Chibok girls also received two hundred thousand naira each as welfare support, while equipment was provided to strengthen the Chibok Tailoring Centre.
The Adamawa State Coordinator of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Mustafa Ali Gana, representing the Director-General, described the programme as a symbol of resilience and hope, saying vocational education creates opportunities for entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Risikatu Solomon thanked the Federal Government and its partners for giving them a second chance through education.
She said the opportunity had restored their confidence and prepared them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation.
The graduates appealed for employment opportunities and continued support for their sisters still in school.
The Chairman of the Chibok Girls’ Parents Association, Yakubu Nkeki, commended the Federal Government and its partners for helping the girls overcome the trauma of their past.
