The Borno State Government has reintegrated 720 former combatants, 992 spouses and 2,050 children into their communities under its non-kinetic peacebuilding initiative, known as the Borno Model.
The beneficiaries, classified as Batch 9 low-risk and minor clients, were formally released at a ceremony held at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri after completing deradicalisation, disarmament, rehabilitation and vocational training programmes.
The initiative is part of the state's strategy to support the reintegration of individuals who voluntarily surrendered during the insurgency and to strengthen peacebuilding efforts across the North-East.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to Governor Babagana Zulum on Security, retired Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq, described the programme as a key component of Borno's non-kinetic counterterrorism approach.
He said thousands of participants have passed through the programme since it began in July 2021, receiving rehabilitation, counselling and skills training aimed at helping them rebuild their lives.
According to Ishaq, participants followed a structured schedule that included religious education, counselling, hygiene awareness, drug prevention sessions and vocational training. Skills acquired covered trades such as tailoring, carpentry, metalwork, phone repairs and solar installation.
Female participants also received training in soap making, knitting, catering and tailoring, while starter packs were distributed to support their resettlement and economic activities.
Ishaq disclosed that more than 9,600 people have been reintegrated through nine batches since the programme was launched. He added that beneficiaries were drawn from several local government areas, including Bama, Gwoza, Damboa, Mafa, Dikwa, Marte, Monguno and Kukawa, following screening by community leaders and security agencies.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, represented by Permanent Secretary Babagana Kadai, said the programme demonstrates the government's commitment to restoring peace, rebuilding livelihoods and promoting social cohesion.
She also praised the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum for expanding rehabilitation, resettlement, education, healthcare and livelihood support programmes for displaced and conflict-affected communities across the state.
Security officials, religious leaders and community representatives urged the reintegrated individuals to remain law-abiding and contribute positively to their communities.
Some beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the opportunity to return to society, saying they had begun rebuilding their lives and participating in community development efforts.
