In another significant step towards lasting peace in North-East Nigeria, the Borno State Government has officially reintegrated 720 former insurgents into society after completing an extensive rehabilitation and deradicalisation programme.

According to cbinewstv, the Borno State Government has successfully reintegrated 720 repentant insurgents into their communities following the completion of a comprehensive deradicalisation, rehabilitation and reintegration programme.

The latest group, classified as low-risk participants under Batch 9 of the state's rehabilitation initiative, took an oath on the Holy Quran before being cleared to return to their various communities across Borno State.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony held at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri on Friday, the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Babagana Zulum, retired Brigadier General Ishaq Abdullahi, described the programme as another major achievement in the state's non-military approach to tackling insurgency.

Abdullahi noted that the initiative, launched on 5 July 2021 under Governor Zulum's administration, has continued to attract former fighters who voluntarily surrender and embrace peace.

He revealed that more than 350,000 individuals have left insurgent camps and surrendered to security forces since the programme began, making the Borno model one of the most recognised non-kinetic peacebuilding initiatives globally.

With the addition of the latest 720 beneficiaries, the total number of reintegrated former insurgents has now reached 9,680 across nine batches. The programme has also supported 992 spouses and 2,050 children linked to the former fighters.

Abdullahi explained that participants undergo a carefully structured rehabilitation process that includes Islamic teachings, counselling, hygiene education, drug abuse awareness and vocational skills training designed to prepare them for productive civilian life.

The skills training covers a wide range of trades, including carpentry, tailoring, metal works, bricklaying, barbing, cap-making, pottery, motorcycle repairs, phone repairs, solar installation and vulcanising.

To help them settle back into society, the state government also provides starter packs to support their new livelihoods.

Before reintegration, community leaders, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force and local hunters carry out screening and verification processes to ensure the individuals are suitable for return to their communities.

The beneficiaries come from several local government areas, including Bama, Konduga, Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere, Mafa, Dikwa, Gwoza, Damboa, Marte, Monguno, Kukawa, Ngala, Kala-Balge and Gubio.

Abdullahi urged the returnees to become responsible citizens and play active roles in promoting peace, stability and development within their communities.

Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, represented by Permanent Secretary Babagana Kadai, described the programme as a powerful symbol of hope, reconciliation and resilience.

She praised Governor Zulum's leadership in advancing peacebuilding efforts, while highlighting the administration's ongoing commitment to rebuilding communities and resettling families displaced by years of insurgency.

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