By Milcah Tanimu
The Borno State government has announced the successful reintegration of 8,490 repentant Boko Haram members through its innovative Borno Model process. This initiative aims to provide vocational training and societal reintegration for former insurgents.
According to the State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, the program includes training in various trades such as phone repairs, mechanics, and carpentry. During an oath-taking ceremony for 560 former insurgents in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Prof. Tar emphasized that these individuals are considered low-risk and include many minors. They have been cleared by the military, other security agencies, and traditional leaders from their respective communities.
Prof. Tar highlighted the program’s success, noting that surveys indicate that those reintegrated have not violated any rules or returned to insurgent activities. “For the past three years, we have established the Borno Model for the mass return of insurgents and those trapped in violence. Today, we are graduating an additional 560 returnees who have been trained in various trades,” said Tar. “This platform has been very successful, and despite a few challenges, the Office of the National Security Adviser has shown confidence in this process.”
Brig. General Abdullahi Ishaq (rtd), Borno State Special Adviser on Security Affairs, commended Governor Babagana Zulum’s administration for its efforts. He reported that 8,490 low-risk individuals and minors have been reintegrated into society. “As of today, we have resettled 7,930 individuals in the past and now an additional 560 people, many of whom were forcefully taken by insurgents a decade ago,” Ishaq said.
The reintegrated individuals include almajirai, farmers, fishermen, and others who were coerced into joining Boko Haram. Community leaders from various LGAs, such as Konduga, Dikwa, Ngala, Marte, Kukawa, Mobbar, Bama, and Gwoza, participated in screening these individuals for the training. At the end of the program, they will receive starter packs to help them begin their new lives in their communities.
This innovative approach by the Borno State government aims to ensure a sustainable and peaceful reintegration process, contributing to the broader efforts of restoring stability and peace in the region.
