According to a Borno state official, six women and nine children abducted by Boko Haram fighters escaped the terror group after months in captivity.

“Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State said the six women and their nine children were being held by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) group in a forest in Buni Yadi, an area of Yobe State, until they escaped and walked for six days to the town of Damboa in neighbouring Borno,” reported Reuters.

During a meeting with the women and children in Borno states capital of Maiduguri, Governor Babagana Zulum attributed their freedom to “prayers and ongoing reconciliation and reintegration programs” in the state.

“The governor said he is hoping for ‘absolute peace’ that would bring an end to the 10-year-old extremist insurgency in which thousands have died and many others kidnapped,” reported ABC News.

ISWAP is an offshoot of Boko Haram, one of the main leaders of destruction and death in Nigeria. Since its founding, Boko Haram has killed over 19,000 people through acts of terrorism and initiated an antigovernmental insurgency that has led to the deaths of over 37,000 in combat.

ISWAP often tries to radicalize those whom they have taken captive. If they are unable to, they may use them as slaves, suicide bombers, or ransom them back to family and friends. Often, those who are taken do not ever return to their homes or families.

We thank God for the safe return of these 15 women and children. We ask that you please pray for the safety of Nigerian citizens living amongst extreme violence, and for the freedom of those who remain in captivity.