The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has welcomed the release of nearly 600 women and children held under administrative custody on alleged association with Boko Haram militants.

They were released from Giwa military barracks in Maiduguri, Borno State.

UNICEF, in a release stated that, the action of the Nigerian army on Tuesday was a major step towards the protection of children affected by the ongoing crisis, adding that it provides hope in a conflict that continues to have an enormous impact on people’s lives.

“These children were held under administrative custody on alleged association with Boko Haram militants. They are victims of the conflict and it is crucial that they receive medicalcare, psychosocial support and other basic services that will help them to regain their dignity.”

UNICEF also stated that once that process of recovery has started, its organization would help them to return to their families and to school or learn new skills that will give them some hope for the future.

“When military screening is needed, children should only be held as a measure of last resort and for the shortest time possible in accordance with national and international standards.

“These children are first and foremost victims of the conflict and require support to recover from their experiences and reintegrate with their families and communities.”