By Peace Udugba
The Borno State Government has reintegrated 720 repentant Boko Haram members into society after they successfully completed a structured deradicalisation and rehabilitation programme under the state’s non-kinetic counter-insurgency strategy.
The beneficiaries, classified as low-risk individuals and minor associates, graduated from a three-month rehabilitation programme held at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri. During the programme, they received psychological counselling, religious reorientation, vocational training, and community reintegration support.
Speaking on the development, retired Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq said the reintegration represents another milestone in the state’s efforts to combat insurgency through non-military measures. He disclosed that the programme has processed more than 350,000 individuals, including former fighters, women, and children who voluntarily surrendered.
The 720 men were reintegrated alongside 992 wives and 2,050 children. According to officials, all participants took an oath on the Quran to live peacefully and obey the laws of the land.
To support their transition back into society, the state government provided starter packs in various trades, including carpentry, metalwork, tailoring, solar installation, catering, and knitting.
Officials said the initiative is designed to reduce the appeal of insurgency, rebuild trust within affected communities, and promote long-term peace and stability in areas recovering from years of conflict.
