The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Saturday urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts and take decisive action to rescue the remaining Chibok girls still held hostage by Boko Haram terrorists.
On April 14, 2014, Boko Haram, an Islamist armed group, abducted 276 girls from their school in Chibok, a town in northeastern Borno State.
CAN pleaded with the government to mobilise all available resources, engage relevant security agencies, and collaborate with international partners to secure the release of the remaining Chibok girls without delay.
The religious body said the incident is not only a matter of national importance but also a test of our commitment to upholding the rights and safety of our citizens, particularly the most vulnerable among us.
In a statement by the National Director for Education, Youth and Women Development of CAN, Dean Rev. Ozumba Nicodemus, urged all Nigerians to stand united, to lend their voices, and to demand immediate action from the government.
Nicodemus said: “Let us show our unwavering support for the families of the Chibok girls and demonstrate our collective determination to bring them back home to reunite with their families.
“The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Directorate of Education, Youth, and Women stands in solidarity with the families and loved ones of the Chibok girls, who have endured ten (10) long years of captivity. The case of the Chibok girls is one that cannot be swept under the carpet, as it represents a horrific tragedy that has left an indelible mark on the nation’s conscience.
“The trauma experienced by the 276 abducted girls from Nigeria is unimaginable. The pain and anguish felt by their parents, who have endured sleepless nights filled with hopelessness, are deeply felt by CAN. We cannot remain silent while their children remain in captivity, yearning for freedom and reunion with their families.
CAN hereby reiterates its unwavering demand for the government to intensify efforts and take decisive action to rescue the remaining children still held hostage. It is our duty
as a nation to ensure their safe return and to bring an end to the anguish and suffering endured by these innocent young girls and their families.
“Furthermore, we implore the international community, humanitarian organizations, and well-meaning individuals to join hands with CAN in advocating for the release of the Chibok girls. Together, we can amplify our voices and exert greater pressure on the abductors to bring an end to this prolonged ordeal.
“CAN remains resolute in its commitment to seeking justice and ensuring the safe return of the Chibok girls. We will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders and utilize all available avenues to shed light on their plight and secure their release.
“May our prayers, actions, and unwavering advocacy bring hope and hasten the day when the Chibok girls will be reunited with their families, free from the chains of captivity”.
