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<p>The UK Government was deeply concerned about the abduction of Nigerian schoolboys
from their school in Kankara, Katsina State, North West Nigeria on 11 December. We
welcome the news that they were released on 17 December. Following the attack, the
Minister for Africa publicly stressed that schoolchildren need to be protected and
subsequently welcomed their release. The UK Deputy National Security Advisor discussed
the kidnap with the President's Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Gambari, on 15 December.</p><p>We
are aware that Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. We are also
aware that Boko Haram have previously claimed responsibility for attacks they have
not directly conducted. For over a decade, terrorist groups, including Boko Haram
and Islamic State West Africa, have caused immense suffering to local communities,
predominantly in North East Nigeria and the wider Lake Chad Basin region. We continue
to monitor developments closely, and to support Nigeria to tackle the terrorist threat.
We are also providing a comprehensive package of stabilisation and humanitarian assistance
to support affected communities.</p>
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