The Federal Government has approved a ₦1,854,277,768 fund to support the education and rehabilitation of the Chibok schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram in 2014.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Ministry of Education said the funding is part of the Chibok Girls Intervention Programme and will cover tuition, accommodation, vocational training, psychosocial care, and other support services for the rescued girls through 2027.
Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry, Boriowo Folasade, confirmed the announcement, noting that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the government remains committed to securing the future of every Nigerian child, especially those affected by insurgency.
“As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Government is ensuring that the 108 rescued girls under the care of the Ministry of Women Affairs continue to receive full rehabilitation and academic support,” the statement said.
It further revealed that 68 of the girls are currently studying at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, owned by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The government reiterated its commitment to covering their tuition and accommodation despite criticisms regarding the institution’s selection.
“The Federal Government has committed ₦1.85 billion to complete the Chibok Girls Intervention Programme, ensuring sustained support until 2027,” the ministry noted.
It also urged Nigerians and political stakeholders to rally behind the ongoing rehabilitation efforts.
“This is not just a financial obligation—it is a moral one,” the ministry stated. “It reflects our determination to turn a painful chapter in Nigeria’s history into a story of hope, resilience, and dignity.”
In April 2014, 276 girls were abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State. While several have since been rescued, 87 are still believed to be in captivity 11 years later.
The government said the new funding will help maintain critical rehabilitation and educational services for the freed girls as part of their long-term recovery and reintegration.
