Malala shares sentimental message to families of the lost Chibok girls

By Kate Hassett

Malala shares sentimental message to families of the lost Chibok girls
It's been two years since 200 girls were kidnapped from Chibok in Nigeria. Malala Yousafzai calls for them to be remembered.

Two years ago on April 14, 2014, over 200 girls were kidnapped from their school in Chibok, northern Nigeria, by the militant islamist group – Boko Haram.

The group took control of the school and abducted 279 girls in total. Since then dozens have escaped but the extremist group still holds 219 captive.

Following the abductions, Malala Yousafzai visited Nigeria, to campaign on behalf of the schoolgirls who were abducted by the rebel group. She spoke at length about the importance of investigating their abduction in mainstream media and continuing to pressure governments into pursuing their captors.

“We are hear to stand up with you and to raise our voice for the girls who are under the kidnapping of Boko Haram. They need our support so they can be freed.”

She also questioned the effectiveness of initiatives put in place to protect women and girls in areas where Boko Haram was a very real and ongoing threat.

Two years on, the message of solidarity urging the continued efforts to #BringBackOurGirls is still at the heart of Malala’s fight.

On the eve of the devastating two year anniversary of the abduction, she pens a heartwarming letter to the parents of the missing girls, stating her ongoing support, and pleading with the government to continue their quest to bring them home.

Dear mothers and fathers,

I write this letter with a heavy heart, knowing you have endured another year separated from your daughters. I think of you every day since we first met two years ago—and join millions of people around the world in praying for the safety and swift return of your girls.

As I did last year, I call on President Buhari of Nigeria—and everyone who can help rescue the Chibok girls—to act now. Would a president give up the fight for his own daughter? These girls are just as precious to their families.

Parents, thank you for having the courage to send your daughters to school. My dream is that one day they will come home, finish their education and choose their futures for themselves.

I pray for the day when you can embrace your girls again.

Your sister,
Malala

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