Women for Women International [to 23 April 2016]
http://www.womenforwomen.org/press-releases

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April 14, 2016
Anniversary of Boko Haram Kidnapping Marked by Calls for Investing in Women and Girls
Nigeria – Women for Women International – Nigeria Country Director Ngozi Eze released the following statement on the second anniversary of the abduction of 276 young women and girls from their school in Chibok in Borno State:

“In the two years since 276 girls were kidnapped from their school by Boko Haram, we have seen the world come together to stand with the people of Nigeria and to unite in our call to #BringBackOurGirls. As we continue to call for their safe return, this anniversary underscores the need to invest in women’s and girls’ access to education and opportunity.

Since 2009, girls’ education has come under serious threat in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa where Boko Haram has continued to attack civilians. More than 900 schools have been destroyed, and more than 600 teachers killed, with thousands of others forced to flee.

Despite these threats, the support and commitment to equal education for girls and boys has never been greater in Nigeria. Across cultural and religious lines, the people of Nigeria know that the empowerment and education of women and girls are critical for strengthening communities and sustaining long-term peace…