Borno Reintegrates 720 Ex-Insurgents, Families
The Borno State Government has reintegrated 3,762 former insurgents and their family members under its non-kinetic peacebuilding framework known as the “Borno Model.”
The beneficiaries, comprising 720 men, 992 spouses and 2,050 children classified as Batch 9 low-risk and minor clients, were formally released at a ceremony held at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri after completing deradicalisation, disarmament, rehabilitation and vocational training programmes.
Officials said the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen peace in the North-East through the reintegration of repentant insurgents who voluntarily surrendered to security forces.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to Governor Babagana Zulum on Security, retired Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq, described the programme as a major milestone in the state’s non-kinetic counterterrorism strategy.
Ishaq said thousands of individuals have passed through the programme since its launch in July 2021, undergoing structured rehabilitation and skills acquisition designed to support their return to society.
According to him, participants followed a structured schedule at the Hajj Camp that included religious education, counselling, hygiene and drug awareness sessions, as well as vocational training in tailoring, carpentry, metalwork, phone repairs, solar installation and other technical trades.
He added that female participants received training in soap making, knitting, catering services and tailoring, while starter packs were provided to assist their resettlement.
Ishaq disclosed that more than 9,600 people have been reintegrated through nine batches since the programme began, describing it as one of the most significant non-kinetic interventions in conflict resolution.
He said beneficiaries were drawn from several local government areas, including Bama, Gwoza, Damboa, Mafa, Dikwa, Marte, Monguno and Kukawa, following screening by community leaders and security agencies.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, represented by Permanent Secretary Babagana Kadai, said the programme demonstrates the government’s commitment to restoring peace, rebuilding lives and promoting social cohesion.
She commended the administration of Governor Zulum for its rehabilitation initiatives, noting that thousands of displaced persons across the state have benefited from resettlement, education, healthcare and livelihood support programmes.
Security officials, religious leaders and community representatives urged the reintegrated individuals to remain law-abiding and contribute positively to their communities.
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude for being accepted back into society, saying they had begun rebuilding their lives and participating in community development efforts.
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