Maryam Aminu
Amnesty International has issued a fresh appeal for the Nigerian government to accelerate efforts to reintegrate and empower girls and young women who have survived insurgency, including the Chibok girls, many of whom are now mothers grappling with the heavy burden of trauma and societal rejection.
Speaking at an event today in Abuja to mark the International Day of the Girl Child, Amnesty International Nigeria’s Programme Manager, Ms Barbara Magaji, made an impassioned plea for immediate action.
She urged the government to take responsibility for the well-being of these survivors, emphasizing that their reintegration into society is critical to their recovery and to the nation’s broader peace-building efforts.
“Today, we stand in solidarity with girls everywhere, particularly those who have suffered the ravages of conflict. In Nigeria, many of these girls have endured abductions, violence, and grave violations of their rights. Some have returned home, only to face stigma and alienation. We must remember their humanity and support them in rebuilding their lives,” Magaji said.
Amnesty International emphasized that the reintegration of these survivors is not just a moral duty but a crucial component of building lasting peace and security in Nigeria.
The organization’s call to action was clear: the government must act swiftly to provide the necessary support systems that can help these young women and their children reintegrate into society with dignity, free from the stigma that currently shadows their lives.
As the global community observes the International Day of the Girl Child, the plight of Nigeria’s conflict-affected girls remains a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic change.
The Chibok girls and others who have survived the horrors of terrorism should not only be remembered as victims but as individuals deserving of every opportunity to thrive and reclaim their futures.
Also speaking, Helen Adah, a member of Amnesty International Nigeria, said
Today, the world is celebrating International Day of the Girl Child, raising awareness about the unique challenges that girls face worldwide and promoting their empowerment.
Adah expressed that every girl has the right to dream, the power to achieve, and the courage to change the world
“This day celebrates the potential of girls and advocates their rights, emphasising the importance of ensuring full participation in social, economic and political spheres.
This day also serves as a platform seeking to remove barriers to their progress, creating a more equitable and supportive environment for girls to thrive and contribute to society.” She said
The gathering ended with a symbolic show of solidarity, where attendees pledged to continue advocating for the rights and welfare of girls and women affected by conflict, urging the government to fast-track initiatives aimed at rescuing and rehabilitating those still held captive.
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