The Federal Government has provided vocational training, business starter packs, and cash grants to 18 rescued Chibok girls as part of efforts to promote economic independence and support their reintegration into society.
The beneficiaries received the support during the graduation ceremony of the Girls’ Support Programme held in Yola, Adamawa State.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said the initiative reflected the government’s commitment to investing in people by equipping survivors with the education, skills, and opportunities needed to rebuild their lives with dignity.
She disclosed that 12 rescued Chibok girls graduated from the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, in May 2026, while another 18 successfully completed vocational and entrepreneurship training. According to her, 33 others have been enrolled in a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme, while 21 girls currently studying at AUN are expected to complete their studies in 2027.
The Adamawa State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Neido Geoffrey, described the graduation ceremony as a celebration of resilience and renewed hope. She noted that many of the rescued girls had transformed into entrepreneurs and professionals who are making meaningful contributions to their communities.
Also speaking, the Adamawa State Coordinator of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mustafa Gana, said vocational education remains a critical pathway to entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable livelihoods. He described the programme as a powerful example of restoration and empowerment.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the graduates, Risikatu Solomon expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and its development partners for providing them with a second chance through education and skills acquisition. She said the programme had restored their confidence and prepared them to contribute positively to national development.
The graduates pledged to become ambassadors of peace, education, and hope by mentoring younger girls and encouraging access to education. They also appealed for employment opportunities and continued support for those still pursuing higher education.
Chairman of the Chibok Girls’ Parents Association, Yakubu Nkeki, commended the Federal Government and its partners for sustaining interventions aimed at supporting the rescued girls. He said the programme had played a significant role in helping the beneficiaries overcome trauma and rebuild their futures.
As part of the empowerment package, each of the 18 graduates received an entrepreneurship grant of ₦1 million along with vocational starter packs, including sewing, tailoring, and catering equipment, to enable them establish their own businesses.
In addition, the Federal Government provided welfare support of ₦200,000 each to 221 parents of the rescued girls as part of broader efforts to strengthen the economic wellbeing of affected families.