Borno govt reintegrates 3,762 repentant insurgents, family members

Borno State Government has reintegrated 3,762 former insurgents and their family members under its non-kinetic peace building initiative, known as the “Borno Model.”

The beneficiaries comprise 720 men, 992 spouses and 2,050 children who voluntarily surrendered and were classified as Batch 9 low-risk and minor clients.

They were formally released during a ceremony at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri after completing deradicalisation, disarmament, rehabilitation and vocational training programmes.

The state government said the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to consolidate peace in the North-East through the reintegration of repentant insurgents who 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 key component of the state’s non-kinetic approach to addressing insurgency.

He said participants underwent structured rehabilitation 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 skills.

According to him, female participants also received training in soap making, knitting, catering services and tailoring, while starter packs were provided to support their reintegration into society.

Ishaq disclosed that more than 9,600 people have been reintegrated through the programme since its inception in July 2021, with beneficiaries drawn from local government areas including Bama, Gwoza, Damboa, Mafa, Dikwa, Marte, Monguno and Kukawa after screening by community leaders and security agencies.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Babagana Kadai, said the programme reflects the government’s commitment to restoring peace, rebuilding lives and promoting social cohesion.

She added that the state government’s rehabilitation efforts have also supported thousands of displaced persons through resettlement, education, healthcare and livelihood initiatives.

Security officials, religious leaders and community representatives urged the reintegrated beneficiaries to remain law-abiding and contribute positively to their communities, while some of the beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

Borno govt reintegrates 3,762 repentant insurgents, family members