Mothers of Chibok: From Tragedy to Entrepreneurship with a Peanut Butter Brand

In a remarkable story of resilience and defiance, the mothers of the Chibok schoolgirls abducted in 2014 are forging a new path toward economic independence and ensuring their children’s education through a unique food venture. The “Mothers of Chibok” brand, producing peanut butter and related products, is transforming locally grown peanuts into a source of hope and financial stability for these women.

The 2014 Chibok Kidnappings: A Continuing Anguish

The abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok, Borno State, Nigeria, in April 2014 sparked international outrage and the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. While some girls escaped or were later freed – some with children born during their captivity – approximately 100 remain missing as of March 6, 2026, leaving their families in enduring anguish. Modern Ghana reports that the trauma continues to impact the community.

From Farm to Factory: A New Economic Model

Nine mothers from Chibok are now collaborating with Zenfix Nigeria and Ajrena Foods, producers of the popular Nutzy peanut butter brand, to process peanuts they cultivate into marketable products. Prior to this initiative, their harvests were sold as raw commodities to local intermediaries, yielding low and unpredictable incomes. The partnership, facilitated by Joel Kachi Benson, director of the documentary “Mothers of Chibok,” provides a stable revenue stream and greater control over the value chain.

Empowering Education and Defiance

Yana Galang, 55, a mother of eight whose 18-year-traditional daughter Rifkatu was among those abducted, emphasizes the importance of education. “If we just sit back and do nothing…stop sending our children to school…that would mean accepting what Boko Haram wants,” she stated, as reported by Modern Ghana. The women are committed to investing their earnings in their children’s education, ensuring a brighter future despite the ongoing trauma.

Increased Production and a Symbol of Hope

Production of peanuts by these women increased from 15 sacks of 100 kg in 2024 to 27 sacks in 2025. For Maryam Ali Maiyanga, 28, a former abductee who escaped in 2016, the “Mothers of Chibok” labeled products represent a promise of a different future for her nine-year-old son, Ali, born during her captivity. She fears he might follow the path of his father, a Boko Haram fighter, without an education.

A Broader Impact and Future Aspirations

Ajrena Foods and Zenfix Nigeria view the initiative as a social and economic reconstruction project with the potential to inspire other mothers affected by Boko Haram and other violent groups. Taibat Dayo-Amzat, founder of Zenfix Nigeria, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating it “creates jobs, improves people’s lives, and has an impact that goes far.” The Mothers of Chibok team hopes to expand the initiative and eventually establish international recognition for their brand.

Ongoing Security Challenges

Despite this progress, the threat of attacks and kidnappings persists in Chibok, a poor farming village reliant on crops like maize, peanuts, millet, and rice. Boko Haram and its rival, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), continue to operate in the region, and mass kidnappings remain a reality in northern and central Nigeria. Recent reports indicate that kidnapping has become a “structured and lucrative” industry, generating approximately $1.66 million between July 2024 and June 2025. Modern Ghana

Documentary Spotlight

The documentary “Mothers of Chibok” (2024) highlights the dignity, resilience, and strength of these women, offering a powerful testament to their unwavering spirit in the face of terror. Afrocritik provides a spotlight on the film, emphasizing the importance of support and collaboration for these mothers.