SAN FRANCISCO, May 6, (THEWILL) – President Muhammadu Buhari has confirmed the release of another 82 Chibok schoolgirls abducted by the Boko Haram from their hostel about three years ago in Chibok, Borno State, northeastern Nigeria.
“Today, 82 more #ChibokGirls were released” Buhari said in a statement by Garba Shehu, his spokesman.
The President said the girls were released following “lengthy negotiations” with members of the Boko Haram. They were released “in exchange for some Boko Haram suspects held by authorities.”
The statement said the girls will arrive Abuja on Sunday and will be received by the President.
Buhari thanked the government of Switzerland, security agencies, the military, the Red Cross, International agencies and NGOs for their work in securing freedom for the girls.
Nigeria had previously negotiated the release 21 of the girls in October.
About 300 girls were forcefully taken their dormitory that night by members of the terrorist group.