Government plans to rehabilitate and reabsorb 744 former extremists back into the community

The Federal Government has announced plans to reintegrate 744 former terrorists and victims of violent extremism into society, following their completion of the De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration Camp under Operation Safe Corridor.

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The breakdown of the former terrorists includes two individuals from Abia State, 10 from Adamawa State, one from Akwa Ibom State, two from Anambra State, 12 from Bauchi State, 597 from Borno State, three from Ebonyi State, one from Enugu State, 15 from Kano State, three from Katsina State, one from Kebbi State, five from Kogi State, four from Nasarawa State, two from Niger State, two from Plateau State, two from Sokoto State, and 58 from Yobe State.

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Additionally, the group includes foreign nationals, comprising one individual from Burkina Faso, one from Cameroon, two from Chad, and four from the Niger Republic, who will also be reintegrated into their respective societies.

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According to reports, 733 of the terrorists are Muslims, while 11 are Christians, highlighting the diverse nature of the group.

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Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, emphasized that the reintegration programme is part of a broader plan to curb violent extremism and promote lasting peace, stressing that it is not a reward for wrongdoing, but rather a deliberate strategy to reduce violence.

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Gen. Olufemi Oluyede stated, “This is not an amnesty programme, but a deliberate strategy to reduce violence, discourage extremist recruitment and ensure long-term national stability,” during the ceremony held in Gombe.

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The 744 beneficiaries underwent months of rehabilitation, including psychosocial support, vocational training, religious reorientation, and civic education, aimed at preparing them for peaceful civilian life, with a focus on reducing the likelihood of re-engagement in violent activities.

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Rear Admiral Kabiru Tanimu, representing the Chief of Defence Staff, noted that the programme was designed to address the human dimensions of insurgency and promote lasting peace, highlighting the importance of community acceptance and support.

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He said, “This moment is not just a ceremony; it is a statement of progress, a demonstration of national resolve and a testimony to the power of strategic thinking in addressing human dimensions of conflict,” emphasizing the significance of the programme.

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Authorities emphasized that the success of the initiative will depend heavily on community acceptance, monitoring, and sustained support from state governments and local stakeholders, who play a crucial role in the reintegration process.

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Brigadier-General Yusuf Ali, Coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor, clarified that the Nigerian military has not recruited repentant terrorists into the military, as claimed by the public, stating that many Nigerians lack adequate understanding of the Federal Government’s structured counter-terrorism programme.

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He noted, “Many Nigerians lack adequate understanding of the Federal Government’s structured counter-terrorism programme under Operation Safe Corridor, which is aimed at rebuilding peace in communities affected by terrorism across the country,” highlighting the need for greater awareness and understanding.

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The Federal Government urged the graduates to seize the opportunity and avoid returning to violence, warning that they now bear the responsibility of contributing positively to their communities and promoting peace and stability.