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Open Free AccountThe Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the reintegration of 744 former terrorists and victims of violent extremism into society following their graduation from the De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration (DRR) Camp under Operation Safe Corridor.
The programme, which aims to combat violent extremism and promote long-term peace, was conducted mainly for individuals formerly associated with insurgent groups in Nigeria’s North-East.
According to officials, the 744 beneficiaries include individuals from several Nigerian states:
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Publish Now- 597 from Borno State
- 58 from Yobe State
- 15 from Kano State
- 12 from Bauchi State
- 10 from Adamawa State
- 5 from Kogi State
- 4 from Nasarawa State
- 3 each from Katsina and Ebonyi States
- 2 each from Abia, Anambra, Niger, Plateau, and Sokoto States
- 1 each from Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Kebbi States
The group also includes foreign nationals, consisting of:
- 1 from Burkina Faso
- 1 from Cameroon
- 2 from Chad
- 4 from Niger Republic
Authorities disclosed that 733 of the beneficiaries are Muslims, while 11 are Christians.
The former combatants underwent months of rehabilitation designed to prepare them for peaceful civilian life.
The programme included:
- Psychosocial counselling
- Vocational and skills training
- Religious reorientation
- Civic education
These activities were aimed at helping participants abandon extremist ideologies and reintegrate into their communities.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony in Gombe, the Olufemi Oluyede said the initiative is part of a broader strategy to tackle insurgency by addressing the human dimension of conflict.
He stressed that the programme should not be mistaken for an amnesty scheme.
“This is not an amnesty programme, but a deliberate strategy to reduce violence, discourage extremist recruitment and ensure long-term national stability,” he said.
Oluyede was represented at the event by Kabiru Tanimu, Director of Special Operations Forces at Defence Headquarters.
During a media tour of the facility, the Coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor, Yusuf Ali, clarified that the Nigerian military has not recruited repentant terrorists into its ranks, dismissing widespread claims circulating in public discourse.
According to him, the programme is designed strictly for rehabilitation and reintegration into civilian society.
Authorities emphasised that the success of the reintegration programme will depend largely on community acceptance, proper monitoring, and continued support from state governments and local stakeholders.
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The Federal Government also urged the graduates to embrace the opportunity for a new life and avoid returning to violence.
Officials warned that the beneficiaries now carry the responsibility of contributing positively to their communities and supporting peace-building efforts across the country.
