The Borno State Government has reintegrated 720 former insurgents, along with 992 spouses and 2,050 children, into their communities after completing rehabilitation and deradicalisation programmes under its peacebuilding initiative known as the “Borno Model.”
The beneficiaries, who previously surrendered to security forces during various operations, underwent counselling, vocational training, education, and ideological reorientation at rehabilitation centres in Maiduguri before being cleared for reintegration. Officials described them as low-risk participants who had successfully completed the programme.
Speaking during the reintegration ceremony, the Special Adviser to Governor Babagana Zulum on Security, retired Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq, said the initiative remains a key component of the state’s strategy to combat insurgency through non-military measures. He noted that the programme encourages fighters to abandon violence, embrace peace, and reunite with their families.
According to Ishaq, returnees were first screened by the military before being transferred to rehabilitation facilities, where they received skills training in areas such as tailoring, carpentry, metalwork, solar installation, phone repairs, bricklaying, and motorcycle maintenance. Women participants were also trained in various vocational skills, including soap making and knitting.
He added that beneficiaries received starter packs to help them rebuild their lives and become self-sufficient after returning to their communities. With the latest exercise, the total number of people reintegrated through the programme has reached 9,680 across nine batches.
The official also explained that local leaders and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force participated in the verification and screening process before approval was granted for reintegration.
Representing the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Permanent Secretary Babagana Kadai said the programme is part of broader efforts to restore stability and rebuild communities affected by years of insurgency in the North-East. He highlighted ongoing government initiatives focused on resettlement, infrastructure reconstruction, and support for vulnerable groups.
