Maiduguri, Nigeria - The Borno State Government has reintegrated 720 former insurgents into society following the successful completion of a deradicalisation, rehabilitation, and reintegration programme aimed at promoting peace and stability in the North-East.

The beneficiaries, described as low-risk participants and members of Batch 9 of the programme, were formally released after taking an oath on the Holy Quran and pledging to remain law-abiding citizens.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony held at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri on Friday, the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, retired Brigadier General Ishaq Abdullahi, said the initiative remains a key component of the state's non-military approach to combating insurgency.

According to Abdullahi, the programme, which commenced on July 5, 2021, has continued to attract former fighters willing to abandon violence and embrace peace.

He disclosed that the latest batch brings the total number of reintegrated former insurgents to 9,680 across nine batches. The programme has also catered to 992 spouses and 2,050 children linked to former fighters.

"The Borno model has become one of the most effective non-kinetic counter-insurgency programmes, with over 350,000 individuals voluntarily surrendering and leaving the bush since its inception," Abdullahi said.

He explained that participants underwent comprehensive rehabilitation activities, including religious teachings, counselling sessions, hygiene education, drug abuse awareness campaigns, and vocational training.

The vocational component equipped beneficiaries with practical skills in areas such as carpentry, tailoring, metal fabrication, phone repairs, solar installation, motorcycle maintenance, bricklaying, barbing, and cap making.

Abdullahi noted that starter packs were provided to support the beneficiaries' transition into productive civilian life.

He added that community leaders, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, and local hunters were involved in screening and recommending the individuals before their reintegration into their communities.

The beneficiaries originate from several local government areas, including Bama, Konduga, Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere, Mafa, Dikwa, Gwoza, Damboa, Marte, Monguno, Kukawa, Ngala, Kala-Balge, and Gubio.

Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, represented by Permanent Secretary Babagana Kadai, described the programme as a symbol of hope, reconciliation, and resilience.

She commended Governor Zulum's administration for its commitment to peacebuilding, resettlement of displaced persons, and reconstruction of communities devastated by years of insurgency.

Authorities urged the rehabilitated individuals to contribute positively to their communities and support ongoing efforts to sustain peace and development across Borno State.