The European Union (EU) has welcomed the return of 82 chibok girls that were released by the Boko Haram sect.

The European Union High Representative, Federica Mogherini, has described the release of 82 Chibok girls as a “glimmer of hope” that all the Boko Haram abductees would regain their freedom.

Mogherini, in a statement on Sunday, said EU’s thoughts are with the released girls as they rebuild their lives.

“This news is a glimmer of hope that one day all the kidnapped girls will once again return home, live freely and have a peaceful future.

“Our thoughts are with them as they have the chance to rebuild their lives and also with those that remain captive,” the statement said.

Mogherini said the Nigerian government must ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous act are brought to justice.

The union, Mogherini said, would continue to “stand shoulder to shoulder” with Nigeria in fighting terrorism and in its tireless work to free the girls.

“The EU also continues to be fully committed to supporting humanitarian, development and reconstruction work in Nigeria,” it added.

It may be recalled when the first batch of 21 girls were released in October 2016, the president directed the security agencies to continue in earnest until all the Chibok girls have been released and reunited with their families.

The president was said to be receiving full reports from the Director-General of the Department of State Services at each stage of the operation.