The Special Adviser on Security to Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, retired Col. Ahmed Usman, has called on the state government to strengthen support mechanisms that complement military efforts in counterinsurgency operations.
Speaking to journalists in Sokoto on Thursday, Usman emphasized the importance of ensuring the successful reintegration of the 390 repentant Boko Haram members.
“They were recently handed over to their respective state governments after completing the Deradicalisation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (DRR) programme.
“The Nigerian Army had fulfilled its responsibility through Operation Safe Corridor, deradicalizing and rehabilitating former insurgents.
“It is now the duty of state governments, community leaders, and society at large to support their full reintegration,” he said.
Usman explained that the individuals underwent intensive psychological counseling, vocational training, and civic education at the DRR camp, and were no longer considered a threat.
“Their transformation can only be successful if communities are willing to accept them and help them reintegrate. These individuals deserve a second chance.
“These 390 ex-combatants, designated as Special Batch 6/2024 and Sulhu Batch 7/2024, were officially handed over to state authorities to begin a new chapter as law-abiding citizens.
According to him, “They have been trained in various trades, including carpentry, tailoring, welding, agriculture, and shoemaking,” he added.
Usman urged the local authorities, community leaders, and civil society organizations to collaborate with state governments in crafting sustainable reintegration plans.
He also highlighted the need for community sensitization and economic empowerment initiatives to prevent a return to insurgency and to promote lasting peace.
“Peace cannot be achieved by military means alone.
“We must adopt inclusive strategies that build trust, restore livelihoods, and support those who have chosen a path of peace.
“Reintegration is a shared responsibility,” Usman stated.
Reports say the DRR programme, launched in 2016, forms part of the Nigerian military’s non-kinetic approach to ending insurgency in the Northeast and other affected regions.
It aims to encourage defections from insurgent groups and provide a pathway back into civilian life for repentant fighters
