Borno Reintegrates 720 Former Insurgents
Borno State has reintegrated 720 former insurgents after completing rehabilitation and vocational training programmes.
The Borno State Government has reintegrated 720 former insurgents into their communities after they completed a comprehensive rehabilitation programme designed to support their return to civilian life.
The beneficiaries, classified as low-risk participants and identified as Batch 9 of the initiative, took an oath and were officially released to various communities across the state. The programme forms part of the government’s broader insurgency rehabilitation programme, which focuses on non-military strategies to promote peace and stability in the North-East.
According to Brig. Gen. Ishaq Abdullahi (retd.), Special Adviser on Security to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the latest exercise represents another important step in the state’s efforts to address the impact of insurgency through rehabilitation and reintegration. He said the initiative began in July 2021 and has attracted former fighters who voluntarily surrendered to security forces and chose a path towards peace.
Abdullahi disclosed that the inclusion of the latest group has increased the total number of reintegrated individuals to 9,680. The figure includes former insurgents as well as their spouses and children who have participated in the programme.
Participants underwent a structured process that included Islamic studies, counselling sessions, hygiene education, drug abuse awareness and vocational training. The skills development component covered areas such as carpentry, tailoring, metal fabrication, mobile phone repairs and solar installation.
To support their transition back into society, the government provided starter packs and other resources aimed at helping them establish sustainable livelihoods. Community leaders and local security groups also screened beneficiaries before approving their return to their respective communities.
The insurgency rehabilitation programme remains a key part of Borno State’s strategy to encourage reconciliation, reduce the risk of renewed violence and support long-term peace in the region. Through the insurgency rehabilitation programme, authorities hope to strengthen community stability and foster lasting social reintegration.
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