12 Chibok Girls Graduate from AUN as Orphaned Law Student Emerges Best Graduating Student.
By Zare Baba, Yola
The atmosphere was filled with emotion, pride, and celebration as 12 former Chibok schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram in 2014 graduated alongside over 250 students during the 17th Convocation Ceremony of American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola.
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The event marked a historic and inspiring moment for Nigeria, especially for families and communities that once feared the girls’ dreams had been permanently shattered by insurgency.
Among the graduating class was Miss Ubaidatu Hammantukur Yettisuri, an orphan who lost both parents during her academic journey at AUN.
Despite the emotional and financial hardships she faced, Ubaidatu emerged as the overall best graduating student with a First-Class Degree in Law.
Delivering her valedictory speech, Ubaidatu expressed deep gratitude to the institution for standing by her during difficult moments that nearly forced her to abandon her education.“The empathy shown to me was the turning point in my life. I remain grateful to the AUN family,” she said emotionally.
The 12 Chibok girls, who were released through efforts of the Federal Government, completed their studies under a scholarship programme funded by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.
Representing the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, described the graduation of the girls as a victory over terrorism and hopelessness.
“These Chibok girls have proven that there is hope and light after darkness, particularly when there is life,” she stated.
One of the graduating students, Margaret Yanama, appreciated the university management and lecturers for supporting them throughout their studies.
“The academic standard here was very high. I never imagined I would cope, but with encouragement from our lecturers and fellow students, my sisters and I succeeded. Today, we are graduates,” she said.
Chairman of the Chibok Community, Mr. Yakubu Nkeki, thanked God for preserving the lives of the girls and giving them another opportunity to rebuild their future through education.
He also commended the Federal Government, the Ministry of Women Affairs, and the management of AUN for their commitment and support toward the girls’ rehabilitation and education.
The Convocation Speaker, renowned journalist and Bring Back Our Girls advocate, Stephanie Busari, described the graduation of the girls as the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream and a symbol of resilience, courage, and hope.
Meanwhile, the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, who attended the ceremony, praised the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the AUN management for their dedication toward ensuring the girls successfully completed their education.
The governor noted that the success story of the Chibok girls demonstrates the importance of government support, quality education, and human compassion in rebuilding lives affected by conflict.
He, however, called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward addressing the worsening insecurity in the North-East region, lamenting that terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry continue to force many residents from their homes into displacement camps.
The graduation ceremony stood not only as an academic celebration but also as a powerful symbol of triumph over adversity, proving that education remains one of the strongest tools for healing, transformation, and national development.
