The Yobe State Government has unveiled plans to reintegrate former members of Boko Haram who have completed the De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration program under Operation Safe Corridor.
Governor Mai Mala Buni made the announcement on Thursday during a meeting with officials from OPSC, led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, in Damaturu, the state capital.
Reflecting on the toll of the 15-year insurgency, Buni described it as a tragedy that has led to the loss of thousands of lives, massive destruction of infrastructure, and displacement of numerous families across the state.
He stressed the importance of non-military strategies to tackle the insurgency’s root causes, acknowledging that not every Boko Haram member had joined voluntarily.
“We shared the belief that some individuals were conscripted into the insurgency through force or indoctrination,” Buni stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to embracing the recommendations of the OPSC, aiming for long-term peace and security.
“The state government is committed to reintegrating repentant insurgents, with 390 set to graduate from the DRR program between April 14 and 19, including 54 Yobe indigenes,” he said, adding that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management would supervise the reintegration.
Buni also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his comprehensive strategy to combat insurgency and organized crime in Northern Nigeria.
“With sustained efforts, they can repent, rehabilitate and return to normal life as responsible citizens,” he added.
On his part, General Musa highlighted the critical role of local communities in supporting the reintegration of ex-insurgents.
He underlined that de-radicalization must be a continuous process rooted in community participation.
He also called for the expansion of rehabilitation infrastructure and improved vocational training resources.
“With your support, those who observe the positive changes in the lives of ex-members will be encouraged to surrender willingly,” Gen. Musa noted.
