(Image courtesy Open Doors USA)
Nigeria (MNN) — It’s been 150 days since the schoolgirls kidnapped in Nigeria last saw their families.
Back in April, the Islamic terror group Boko Haram kidnapped 276 schoolgirls from the Chibok village in Borno State. Shortly thereafter, 57 girls were able to escape and make it to safety, but the rest remain in captivity.
However, there might be a trade in the works to bring at least 30 of the remaining 219 Chibok schoolgirls back home, according to reports.
Nigerian newspaper, The Nation, issued a report yesterday claiming a “secret negotiation” between Boko Haram and the Nigerian government to exchange 18 Boko Haram prisoners for 30 of the Chibok captives. This exchange was reportedly stalled because Nigeria’s government wanted all of the girls to be returned, and Boko Haram would only agree to free 30.
Meanwhile, Open Doors USA has been in contact with the kidnapped girls’ family members. Open Doors field workers met with families a few months ago to pray with them and deliver letters of prayer and encouragement from Christians around the world.
According to a Nigerian evangelist, 163 of the kidnapped schoolgirls are Christian. As their families cling to the Lord for strength and hope, will you join them?
Pray for the kidnapped schoolgirls’ safety, and pray that they are returned to their families soon. Pray for those who follow Christ, that their faith in the Lord will remain strong. Pray for strength and endurance for the families of the kidnapped schoolgirls.
Lord May you keep these girls safe and allow them all to be able to go home soon. Be with these family members that are praying for their girls to go back home. Help them not to give up hope in you Jesus. In Jesus name we pray, Amen