Nigeria: A captive birthday: Leah Sharibu turns 23 in Boko Haram custody

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

Leah Sharibu, the Nigerian schoolgirl abducted by Boko Haram terrorists in 2018, marked her 23rd birthday on May 14, 2026, in captivity. Eight years have passed since the brutal attack on Government Girls’ Science and Technical College, Dapchi, leaving her family and millions of Nigerians anxiously seeking her safe return.

Leah’s story has become a symbol of resilience and a stark reminder of the Nigerian state’s failure to protect its citizens from terror and religious persecution. When Boko Haram abducted over 100 girls, outrage ensued, but only Muslim girls were released. Leah, a Christian, remained captive due to her refusal to renounce her faith.

Her prolonged captivity highlights the urgent need for government action to secure her release and address the plating issue of insecurity in Nigeria. Leah’s family continues to hold onto hope, while her plight serves as a call to action for Nigerians and the international community to demand her freedom and protection for all vulnerable individuals.