The eighth batch of reintegration for 560 repentant Boko Haram militants, including low-risk individuals and minors, has commenced in Maiduguri, Borno State, North-East Nigeria. This training aims to prepare them for life after leaving the camp.
The reintegration program will last between six and nine months. Brigadier General Abdullah Ishaq (retired), the Borno State Special Adviser on Security Affairs, explained that the trainees would be introduced to various trades and skills before being returned to their communities. They will receive lectures for two weeks from academics, police, the National Orientation Agency, religious leaders, and other relevant societal sectors.
At the end of the program, the trainees will receive starter packs and be reintegrated into their communities, which have screened them for the training.
General Ishaq stated, “This is the eighth batch; we have previously completed batches one to seven, involving 7,930 individuals. Including this batch, we have 560 participants who will leave next week. Out of the 7,930, we have not received any negative reports.”
He emphasized the importance of the trainees participating in community activities, such as naming ceremonies, burials, and prayers, to foster unity.
Over the past three years, the program has achieved significant progress, with many returning to farming and a general, gradual return of peace.