Borno reintegrates 720 ex-combatants, families into society

By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri

MAIDUGURI — The Borno State Government has reintegrated 720 men, 992 spouses, and 2,050 children who had surrendered under its non-kinetic peacebuilding framework, popularly known as the “Borno Model.”

The beneficiaries, described as Batch 9 low-risk and minor clients, were formally released during a ceremony at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri after undergoing deradicalisation, disarmament, rehabilitation, and vocational training.

According to officials, the programme is part of ongoing efforts to consolidate peace in the North-East through reintegration of repentant insurgents who voluntarily surrendered to security forces.

Speaking at the event, Special Adviser to Governor Babagana Zulum on Security, Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq (Rtd), said the initiative represents a major milestone in the state’s non-kinetic approach to counterterrorism.

He said thousands of individuals have so far passed through the programme since its inception in July 2021, with many undergoing structured rehabilitation and skills acquisition to support their reintegration into society.

According to him, participants were engaged in a structured schedule at the Hajj Camp, including religious education, counselling, hygiene and drug awareness sessions, as well as vocational training in trades such as tailoring, carpentry, metalwork, phone repairs, solar installation, and other technical skills.

He added that female participants also received training in soap making, knitting, catering services, and tailoring, while starter packs were provided to support their resettlement.

Ishaq said more than 9,600 persons have so far been reintegrated across nine batches, describing the programme as one of the most significant non-kinetic interventions in conflict resolution.

He noted that beneficiaries were drawn from several local government areas, including Bama, Gwoza, Damboa, Mafa, Dikwa, Marte, Monguno, Kukawa, and others, following screening by community leaders and security agencies.

In her remarks, 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 commended the Zulum administration for its rehabilitation efforts, noting that thousands of displaced persons have benefited from resettlement, education, healthcare, and livelihood support programmes across the state.

Security officials, religious leaders, and community representatives urged the reintegrated persons to remain law-abiding and serve as positive contributors to their communities.

Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude for their acceptance back into society, saying they had begun rebuilding their lives and contributing to community development.

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