From Near-Death to University Matriculation
A Nigerian boy named Samuel, who narrowly escaped death after being accused of witchcraft twelve years ago, has achieved a remarkable educational milestone by gaining admission into university. The heartwarming news was shared by Danish aid worker Anja Ringgren Lovén through a Facebook post on Friday, November 28, 2025.
A Rescue That Changed Everything
Anja Ringgren Lovén rescued Samuel twelve years ago in Akwa Ibom State when he was facing life-threatening circumstances due to witchcraft allegations. In her emotional social media post, Lovén recalled the powerful moment shortly after his rescue when she deliberately shared a meal with the young boy.
"Children accused of being witches are believed to be possessed by evil spirits, so nobody wants to share food with them," Lovén explained. "To share food with Samuel was my way to make him know that I did not believe he was a witch."
Dreams Fulfilled Through Education
After more than a decade under the care of Land of Hope, the organization founded by Lovén, Samuel has now achieved what once seemed impossible. The young man recently celebrated his matriculation into university, marking a triumphant moment in his journey from survival to academic success.
"I watch with much pride Samuel celebrating his matriculation today! He did it!!" Lovén wrote enthusiastically. "Congratulations Samuel! 12 years ago we shared a meal together and my only wish back then was for you to survive and get an education."
The aid worker acknowledged that Samuel's transformation and educational achievement became possible through support from donors to Land of Hope, expressing her eternal gratitude for the community that made this success story possible.
