In a development that signals a shift in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts, 117 repentant terrorists from Borno State have completed the Disarmament, Rehabilitation and Reintegration programme under Operation Safe Corridor.
The milestone was announced on Thursday, February 19, 2026, by the Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba. The update was shared during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja.
The Operation Safe Corridor DRR programme continues to play a central role in Nigeria’s security strategy. Moreover, the latest graduation reflects growing cooperation between federal and state authorities.
According to the statement, the meeting was convened by Defence Headquarters to finalise steps for transferring rehabilitated individuals to national and state authorities for reintegration into society.
The Coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor, Brig. Gen. Y. Ali, confirmed that the 117 participants completed their programme at Mallam Sidi Camp in Borno State.
“Providing operational updates, the Coordinator disclosed that 117 clients from Borno State have successfully completed the DRR process at Mallam Sidi Camp, reflecting strengthened federal–state harmonisation in reception, monitoring and community reintegration,” the statement read.
He described the achievement as evidence of improved coordination in handling former fighters who surrendered. However, he stressed that reintegration must be carefully monitored to prevent a return to violence.
Meanwhile, the programme is being expanded beyond the North East. A new DRR camp was established in the North West in February last year.
In addition, discussions are ongoing with Zamfara State to adjust the facility toward a broader Victim Healing, Rehabilitation and Reintegration model. The framework will include psychosocial support, community reconciliation, and livelihood assistance.
Furthermore, Benue State in the North Central region has formally requested the establishment of a DRR camp. Defence Headquarters has assessed proposed sites. Approval will depend on meeting national infrastructure and security standards.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Maj. Gen. Jamal Abdusalam, reaffirmed the importance of the initiative. He stated that while military operations create space for peace, rehabilitation ensures long-term stability.
The Operation Safe Corridor DRR programme, launched in 2016, combines disarmament with deradicalisation and structured reintegration. It forms part of Nigeria’s broader counter-insurgency and security reform efforts.
Participants at the meeting included federal ministries, the Office of the National Security Adviser, state governments, and neighbouring countries. International partners such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Organization for Migration were also present.
Therefore, the programme is not only a national effort but also a collaborative regional strategy.
