President Muhammadu Buhari extends his good wishes to the people of Chibok, Borno State, as they hold prayers and thanksgiving services to mark the sixth anniversary of the kidnapping of their daughters by Boko Haram terrorist group.

A statement from the senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity, Shehu Garba President Buhari regrets that the current COVID-19 pandemic, with restrictions on movement, makes it impossible for any government delegation to be with them during the event.

He, however, assures the people of Chibok that he is still mindful of their welfare and their concerns, especially regarding the girls who are still missing.

On the specific issue of the freedom for the remaining girls held by the terrorists, the President notes the ongoing efforts on two fronts, adding that the armed forces of the country who are on general operations in the entire region continue in their hope that they would encounter the girls, rescue and bring them back home as they did thousands of other hostages,

The president said the nation’s security and intelligence community, in whom a lot of hope, is reposed in rescuing the abducted girls is making a lot of efforts using backroom channels to get them back to their families

President Buhari also reflected on the progress being made by the freed ‘Chibok girls’, who were sponsored by his administration to study at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, saying that he is proud of what they are doing.

He encourages them to remain focused on their studies and on this unique opportunity that has been given to them by God, following their horrific time in captivity.

The President, however, commends Yakubu Nkeki, Lawan Zannah and Yana Galang, the executive officials of the Association of the Parents of the Abducted Girls from Chibok, on their steadfast efforts to advocate for the welfare of the parents, the freed women, and those still in captivity.