“This Friday marks exactly two and a half years since the girls were abducted from their school dormitory. Most were studying to go on to college or university and to be nurses, doctors, care workers, teachers, lecturers and engineers.

“For those girls rescued today – a rescue for which we should thank the International Red Cross – we do not know how they will readjust but one thing is for certain, their lives have changed forever.

“Now we must urge authorities and negotiators not to give up until every girl is safely back with their families.”