Federal Government has approved ₦1.84 billion for the education and rehabilitation of the Chibok schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram in 2014.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Ministry of Education announced the funding on Thursday, saying it forms part of the Chibok Girls Intervention Programme and will cover tuition, accommodation, vocational training, psychosocial care, and other support services until 2027.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, said President Bola Tinubu remains committed to protecting the education and future of Nigerian children.
“Mr President does not play politics with the education and future of Nigerian children,” Alausa said.
The ministry explained that under the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the rescued 108 girls under the care of the Ministry of Women Affairs will continue to receive “comprehensive rehabilitation and academic support.”
Currently, 68 of the girls are enrolled at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, owned by opposition leader and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
The ministry stressed that despite Atiku’s criticisms of the administration, government funding has ensured the girls’ education is uninterrupted.
“Despite persistent criticisms of this administration by such figures, Mr. President has continued to approve the payment of tuition, accommodation, and associated fees to AUN to safeguard the education of these young women,” the statement read.
The government framed the commitment as both financial and moral:
“This represents Nigeria’s pledge to turn a dark chapter in our nation’s history into a story of resilience, dignity, and hope. It also underscores the President’s conviction that the education of Nigerian children is beyond partisan politics.”
Calling on political leaders to rally behind the effort, the ministry added:
“While opposition politicians like the former Vice President and others have chosen to exploit national challenges for political gain, President Tinubu has demonstrated true statesmanship. True leadership is measured by tangible action, not empty criticism.”
