A Nigerian boy once abandoned after being branded a witch has completed his primary education with outstanding results, highlighting the resilience of children saved from harmful traditional practices.

The boy, Hope, first came to global attention in 2016 when Danish aid worker Anja Ringgren Lovén, rescued him on the streets of Akwa Ibom State. Emaciated and left to die after being accused of witchcraft, he was taken in by Land of Hope, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to protecting children accused of witchcraft in Nigeria.

Nearly a decade later, Hope has not only survived but excelled academically. Lovén announced his achievement in a Facebook post, celebrating his graduation from primary school.

“Hope survived. He graduated this year and starts secondary school next month,” she wrote. “His story is world famous and every day I look at him and feel so grateful for his incredible development.”
Lovén described Hope as deaf but thriving through the use of sign language. She praised his creativity and talents:

“Not only is he very intelligent, he is a talented artist, an excellent dancer, he is very warm and caring, and on top of that, he has a great sense of humour.”

While celebrating his progress, she also drew attention to the plight of thousands of children still suffering under accusations of witchcraft.

“Some days it makes me think about the thousands of ‘Hope’s’ out there who we will never get to know,” she said.

“Never get to know because their lives are short. Once a child is accused of being a witch it’s the end. But we will never give up. It’s an uphill battle but with your support to Land of Hope we will continue to save lives.”

Hope’s graduation underscores both the dangers posed by harmful traditional beliefs and the transformative power of sustained humanitarian intervention.