Two survivors of the 2014 abduction of 276 schoolgirls by Boko Haram terrorists in Chibok, Borno State, Patience Bulus and Mercy Ali Paul, have graduated from colleges in the United States.
Bulus graduated from Dickinson College, majoring in Gender Studies and Religion, while Paul graduated from Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) with an Associate Degree in Social Science.
The duo received scholarships from the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) and Victims Support Fund, which provided personal growth opportunities to the rescued Chibok girls, enabling them to pursue higher education at renowned universities in the United States.
Bulus was also inducted as an honourable member of the National Society of Leadership and Success at Dickinson College in 2021.
Speaking at her graduation in Carlisle Pennsylvania, U.S.A., Founder and Chief Executive Officer, MMF, Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode said the duo are perfect examples of resilience and determination.
“We celebrate Patience and Mercy’s achievements today as a powerful example of resilience, and we celebrate their determination not to be defined by the past but focused on the future.”
Muhammed-Oyebode noted that many more girls in Chibok and other conflict-affected communities deserve the same opportunity, and called for immediate action at the local and global levels to enable access to quality education and build self-reliance in conflict-affected communities.
She said with 91 girls in captivity, many of the Chibok schoolgirls have returned as mothers, adding that with rape, coercion, and extremism often as weapons of war, the need to protect women and girls must not be ignored.
Sharing their inspirational journey to completing their education, Paul said: “Graduating feels like a dream I never thought would come true. Ten years ago, I was just hoping to survive the nightmare of abduction. Each moment I spent with Boko Haram was filled with fear and uncertainty, but my faith kept me strong. I finally escaped, and I became determined after that to reclaim my life. I knew education was the key to rebuilding my future, and now with this diploma, I feel empowered. My journey has been challenging, but the support from my family, friends, and sponsoring organisations from Nigeria made it possible. I hope my story inspires other girls in Nigeria and around the world to never give up, no matter how dark their circumstances may seem.”
On her part, Bulus said: “Walking across this stage today is more than just receiving a diploma; it’s a testament to resilience and hope. Ten years ago, Boko Haram tried to take away our future, but they couldn’t take away our dreams. Escaping their grip was just the first step. Adapting to life in the U.S. and catching up with my education was incredibly challenging, but every struggle was worth it.
“Graduating with a degree from a prestigious college is not just for myself, but for the countless girls who are yet to make it out. This achievement is dedicated to them and to the power of community support. The encouragement and resources provided by sponsors in Nigeria and others here in the U.S. made this possible. I am excited to use my education to advocate for girls’ rights and education worldwide. Today is proof that with perseverance and support, we can overcome even the most harrowing experiences.”
The initiative also gave the girls psycho-social and immigration support, as well as essential aid and resources for their academic development.
