Over 400 women and children freed from Boko Haram captivity in northeast Nigeria

A wave of relief has swept through northeastern Nigeria after more than 400 women and children kidnapped by the jihadist group Boko Haram were set free following months in captivity in Borno state, local authorities confirmed.

According to officials, a total of 416 individuals from the village of Ngoshe regained their liberty on Saturday, June 6. Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume and local youth representatives confirmed the release.

Village under repeated attack

Ngoshe, situated less than ten kilometres from the Cameroon border, lies in the Gwoza area—a longtime stronghold of Boko Haram.

Since the armed insurgency began in 2009, this region has been repeatedly targeted by jihadist assaults, leaving communities in constant fear.

Mystery surrounds release conditions

No official explanation has been given for the mass liberation. Local officials involved in talks with the captors have not disclosed whether any ransom was paid.

Nigerian authorities regularly state they do not negotiate with armed groups. However, expert reports indicate that ransom payments remain a common practice to secure the release of hostages.

Region still scarred by violence

For over fifteen years, Boko Haram and its rival, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), have caused tens of thousands of deaths and displaced millions across northeastern Nigeria.

Mass kidnappings continue to be a major funding source for armed groups operating in the area.