The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has commenced a review of its rehabilitation and reintegration programme for repentant insurgents, known as Operation Safe Corridor, as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s counter insurgency strategy.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Micheal Onoja, disclosed this on Friday while briefing journalists on ongoing military operations nationwide. He said the review was informed by emerging challenges and public concerns regarding the Federal Government’s de radicalisation and rehabilitation initiative.
Onoja explained that Operation Safe Corridor was introduced by the Defence Headquarters in collaboration with the Borno State Government and relevant federal ministries to provide a pathway for insurgents who voluntarily surrendered to abandon violence and reintegrate into society.
“For a period of time, that system achieved some significant success. As with everything, any human activity has some point of challenges. We do not deny that there are challenges, and we also acknowledge that there is a need for a review,” he said.
He noted that the ongoing reassessment was aimed at strengthening the programme and ensuring it remains effective in addressing current security realities.
The military spokesman added that while insurgents would be held accountable for their actions, the opportunity for rehabilitation remains an important component of national security efforts.
“We are also as concerned as you and other members of the public. We have heard a lot of things the public is saying. I can assure you that the review will be done and you will hear our new operational directives for Operation Safe Corridor,” he said.
Onoja also addressed concerns over peace initiatives involving insurgents at the state level, noting that governors have a responsibility to protect their states but must operate within the framework of federal security policies.
“Some states have the rights and the powers to take every action that will secure their states. However, I can tell you confidently that they will not be able to do that without the authorisation of the Office of the National Security Adviser,” he said.
He reaffirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to implementing federal government policies and supporting authorised measures aimed at restoring peace and stability in affected areas.