The Yobe State Government has revealed plans to reintegrate former Boko Haram operatives who have completed the federal government’s De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (DRR) initiative, otherwise known as Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC).
Governor Mai Mala Buni shared this development during a strategic session with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the OPSC delegation in Damaturu on Thursday.
Buni acknowledged the toll of the prolonged insurgency, which over 15 years has led to massive loss of life, widespread destruction, and displacement of communities.
He stressed the need for more peaceful strategies in tackling terrorism, noting that some militants were coerced or misled into joining the group.
He reaffirmed the state’s willingness to adopt the recommendations from OPSC to aid in the long-term reintegration of repentant militants.
He also express gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his inclusive approach to fighting terrorism and insecurity in the North.
“Some of the insurgents were victims of manipulation or force. With the right support, they can transform and rejoin society,” Buni said.
He announced that 390 individuals, including 54 from Yobe, would graduate from the DRR program between April 14 and 19, with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management supervising the reintegration process.
General Musa, in his remarks, emphasized the role of local communities in supporting the de-radicalization journey, noting that rehabilitation must be sustained with community involvement.
He also called for more centres, vocational resources, and modern tools to support reintegration efforts.
