The Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) transferred a rescued Chibok girl, Lydia Simon, and her three children to the Borno State Government on Thursday, May 9, 2024, marking another step forward in the ongoing efforts to recover victims of Boko Haram’s violence.
At the handover ceremony, Major General Waidi Shaibu, Theatre Commander of OPHK, emphasized the importance of the event, noting that the 2014 mass abduction of schoolgirls from Chibok sparked national and international outcry, giving rise to the “Bring Back Our Girls” movement.
General Shaibu praised the persistent military operations targeting terrorist strongholds, leading to successful rescues like that of Lydia Simon.
He expressed the command’s unwavering dedication to liberating all captives still held by insurgent groups.
General Shaibu acknowledged the strategic direction provided by General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, and Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, in enhancing the military’s efforts.
He also recognized the essential role of support from the Chief of Army Staff and stakeholders.
Brigadier General Abubakar Haruna, Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 7th Division of the Nigerian Army, provided further details, revealing that Lydia and her children were rescued on April 17, 2024, by OPHK troops in the Gwoza Local Government Area.
Representatives from the Borno State Ministry of Women Affairs and Youth Development, along with Component Commanders, Formation Commanders, and Staff Officers from Headquarters Theatre Command and the 7th Division of the Nigerian Army, attended the event to witness this significant handover, a beacon of hope amidst the prolonged fight against terrorism in the region.
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