President Muhammadu Buhari has described the release of the 82 Chibok girls by Boko Haram insurgents as a pleasant occurrence.
Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) reports that the President said this in his remarks to the rescued girls whom he met behind closed doors in the presidential villa Aso Rock on Sunday, May 7.
According to the President, who reportedly secured the girls’ release through exchange of Boko Haram prisoners, the development was his secon-year anniversary gift to Nigerians.
President Buhari surrounded by the 82 released girls on Sunday, May 7 He said: “This is a pleasant 2nd anniversary gift to the people of Nigeria.
“I cannot express in a few words how happy I am to welcome our dear girls back to freedom.
“On behalf of all Nigerians, I will like to share my joy with you, your parents, your relatives, friends and Government of Borno State on regaining your freedom.”
The President also hailed the efforts of the security agencies and other bodies that worked to secure the girls’ release.
“The Federal Government will like to commend the Security Agencies, the Red Cross, local authorities, local and foreign NGOs and all those who contributed in one way or another to secure the release of our Chibok Girls.”
President Buhari then pledged the federal government’s support for the safety of all Nigerians and the rescue of all those still in captivity. “Let me reassure Nigerians, especially relatives and friends of the remaining girls that the Federal Government will spare no effort to see that they and all other Nigerians who have been abducted safely regain their freedom.
“Finally, I am very pleased to have personally met you and let me assure you that the Presidency will personally supervise the performance of those entrusted with your welfare and commitments made by the Federal Government on your health, education, security and general well-being.
“No human being should go through this kind of ordeal. The security agencies and state governments should continue to provide special protection to educational institutions vulnerable to this kind of outrage especially in remote areas.
“This administration is resolutely determined to safeguard the security of all Nigerians at all times. Once again, I congratulate you and your parents on your safe return.”
Meanwhile, NAIJ.com gathered that President Buhari traveled out of Nigeria just shortly after meeting with the girls. Reports on NTA said that the President had indeed been waiting to receive the girls before he left for his medical trip to the United Kingdom.