The Borno State Government has reintegrated 3,762 former insurgents and their family members into society under its peacebuilding initiative known as the Borno Model.
The beneficiaries included 720 men, 992 wives, and 2,050 children who were classified as low-risk individuals after voluntarily surrendering and participating in rehabilitation programmes.
The group, identified as Batch 9 participants, was officially released during a ceremony held at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri after completing deradicalisation, disarmament, rehabilitation and vocational training programmes.
The state government said the initiative is part of efforts to strengthen peace and stability in the North-East by helping repentant insurgents return to normal life and become productive members of their communities.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to Governor Babagana Zulum on Security, retired Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq, said the programme has continued to play a key role in the state's strategy for tackling insurgency through non-military measures.
He disclosed that since the programme began in July 2021, thousands of participants have undergone rehabilitation and acquired practical skills to support their resettlement.
According to him, those enrolled in the programme received religious instruction, counselling sessions, health and hygiene education, as well as awareness programmes on drug abuse.
They were also trained in various trades including tailoring, carpentry, welding, metal fabrication, phone repairs, solar installation and other technical skills.
Female participants received training in tailoring, knitting, soap production and catering services. The government also provided starter packs to help them establish small businesses and earn a living after returning to their communities.
Ishaq revealed that more than 9,600 people have now been reintegrated through nine batches since the programme started. He described the initiative as one of the largest non-military approaches aimed at resolving conflict and rebuilding communities affected by insurgency.
He explained that beneficiaries were selected from several local government areas, including Bama, Gwoza, Damboa, Mafa, Dikwa, Marte, Monguno and Kukawa, after undergoing screening by security agencies and community leaders.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Zuwaira Gambo, represented by Permanent Secretary Babagana Kadai, said the programme demonstrates the government's commitment to rebuilding lives and encouraging peaceful coexistence among residents.
She praised the administration of Governor Zulum for continuing rehabilitation and resettlement efforts across the state.
She noted that many displaced persons have benefited from support programmes covering education, healthcare, livelihood assistance and community resettlement.
Security officials, religious leaders and community representatives urged the beneficiaries to remain peaceful, obey the law and contribute positively to the development of their communities.
Some of the reintegrated individuals expressed appreciation for the opportunity to start afresh, stating that they are working to rebuild their lives and support development efforts in their communities.
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