No fewer than 744 former terrorists and victims of violent extremism have completed Nigeria’s De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration programme under Operation Safe Corridor.
The participants, drawn largely from the North-East, graduated on Thursday at the rehabilitation camp in Gombe State.
According to officials, the group includes individuals from several Nigerian states, with the majority originating from Borno and Yobe, as well as a handful of foreign nationals from neighbouring countries.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described the initiative as a critical component of Nigeria’s counter-insurgency strategy, stressing that it should not be misconstrued as a reward for violent acts.
“This moment is more than a ceremony; it reflects our collective resolve to address the human dimensions of conflict,” he said.
“Operation Safe Corridor is not a reward, but a deliberate strategy to reduce violence, weaken extremist recruitment and promote long-term stability.”
Represented by Rear Admiral Kabiru Tanimu, Oluyede emphasised that while military operations remain necessary, sustainable peace depends on addressing the root causes of extremism.
“Lasting peace can only be achieved when we focus on de-radicalisation, disengagement and reintegration,” he added.
He also cautioned the graduates against returning to violence, urging them to embrace a new direction in life.
“Nigeria is giving you a second chance; do not waste it. You have a responsibility to live peacefully and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
The CDS further clarified that the programme is not an amnesty initiative but complements ongoing military efforts.
“It is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it reduces recidivism and tackles the ideological foundations of violent extremism,” he noted.
Earlier, the Coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor, Brig. Gen. Yusuf Ali, said the programme was designed as a structured response to insurgency, combining security measures with rehabilitation efforts.
“While kinetic operations continue, it became clear that lasting peace requires a pathway for those willing to renounce violence,” Ali said.
“This process is about rebuilding identity, restoring values and preparing individuals to return as responsible citizens.”
He explained that participants underwent extensive support, including psychosocial therapy, vocational training, religious reorientation and civic education.
Ali also noted that many of the beneficiaries were victims of coercion. “Some were abducted, others forced into the conflict, and many manipulated by circumstances beyond their control. Today marks a turning point for them,” he stated.
The Gombe State Government, represented by Ambassador Yusuf Musa, urged the graduates to make good use of the opportunity.
“You have been given a new beginning. Become law-abiding and productive citizens. Do not betray the trust placed in you,” he said.
Authorities emphasised that successful reintegration would depend heavily on support from state governments, communities and families, describing it as a collective responsibility.
Operation Safe Corridor, established in response to the Boko Haram insurgency, continues to serve as a multi-agency platform aimed at combining military action with non-kinetic approaches to restore peace and stability in affected regions.
