The Yobe State Government has announced plans to reintegrate former Boko Haram militants who have completed the De-radicalization, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration program under Operation Safe Corridor.
The State Governor, Mai Buni, made the announcement on Thursday during a meeting with OPSC representatives led by Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, in Damaturu, the state capital.
Buni acknowledged the catastrophic consequences of the 15-year Boko Haram insurgency, which has killed thousands, destroyed property, and uprooted many families.
He underlined the importance of a non-kinetic strategy to addressing the underlying reasons of the conflict, acknowledging that not all Boko Haram members joined willingly.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to accepting and implementing OPSC recommendations to achieve the desired results.
Bunmi also praised President Bola Tinubu’s diversified effort to eradicating the insurgency and big crimes in the North.
“We shared the belief that some individuals were conscripted into the insurgency through force or indoctrination.
“With sustained efforts, they can repent, rehabilitate and return to normal life as responsible citizens.
“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.
“The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management will oversee the reintegration process.”
Gen. Musa emphasised the need for community support in the ongoing process of de-radicalization.
He also advocated for more de-radicalization centres, vocational training facilities, and modern equipment to improve rehabilitation.
