Two survivors and escapees of the 2014 Boko Haram terrorists’ abduction of 276 school girls from Chibok, Borno State, Patience Bulus and Mercy Ali Paul have graduated from higher institutions in the United States of America.
Following their escape from the insurgents’ camp in 2014, the young girls took advantage of the opportunity offered by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) and Victims Support Fund (VSF) for them to continue their education in the United States.
Miss Bulus got a degree in American Gender Studies and Religion from Dickinson College, while Miss Paul received an Associate Degree in Social Science from Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA).
Miss Bulus was also inducted as an Honourable Member of the National Society of Leadership and Success at Dickinson College in 2021.
The founder and CEO of MMF, Mrs. Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, stated that the abduction of 276 schoolgirls more than 10 years ago from their boarding school in Chibok, Borno State, signaled the urgency of action to secure education for girls in Nigeria.
Muhammed-Oyebode said: “We celebrate Patience and Mercy’s achievements today as a powerful example of resilience and their determination not to be defined by the past but focused on the future.”
Sharing the story of her journey, Ali 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 the Boko Haram was filled with fear and uncertainty, but my faith kept me strong. I finally escaped and became determined 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 from Nigeria and around the world to never give up no matter how dark their circumstances may seem.”
Bulus said walking across the stage is more than just receiving a diploma; she said it is a testament to perseverance and the power of community support.
According to her: “Walking across the stage today is more than just receiving a diploma, it is a testament to resilience and hope. Ten years ago, Boko Haram tried to take away our future, but they could not take away our dreams. Escaping their grip was just the first step. Adapting to life in the US 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 US made this possible. I am excited to use my education to advocate for girls’ right and education worldwide.
“Today is proof that, with perseverance and support, we can overcome even the most harrowing experiences.”
