In a heartwarming turn of events, a young boy from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, who was once branded a “witch,” abandoned, stigmatized, and left to d!e, has now successfully graduated from primary school — a milestone made possible through the love, care, and dedication of Danish aid worker and philanthropist, Anja Ringgren Lovén.
The boy’s story first touched the world in 2016, when a viral photo of a severely malnourished toddler drinking water from a bottle given by Lovén shocked millions globally. At the time, he had been accused of witchcraft by members of his community — a harmful practice still prevalent in parts of Nigeria — and abandoned by his own family. Many thought he would not survive.
Lovén, who founded the Land of Hope Foundation, took him in, gave him medical care, food, and shelter, and ensured he received not just love but also education. Over the years, the boy recovered remarkably, growing into a bright and resilient child.
Now, years later, his graduation from primary school marks a powerful symbol of hope and resilience, as well as a testament to what compassion can achieve. Sharing the moment on social media, Lovén expressed her joy, saying the boy’s journey is proof that every child deserves a chance to live, dream, and succeed regardless of stigma or superstition.
The graduation has sparked an outpouring of celebration and emotional tributes online, with many Nigerians and international well-wishers praising Anja Ringgren Lovén for her unwavering commitment to saving children accused of witchcraft.
This story stands as both an inspiration and a reminder of the urgent need to eradicate harmful cultural practices that stigmatize innocent children. What was once a story of despair has now become a shining example of hope — showing that with love, protection, and education, lives can truly be transformed.
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