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The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Christopher Musa, has stated that approximately 789 former terrorist combatants are currently undergoing the De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (DRR) programme under the Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC) initiative.

Musa, who was represented by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, AVM Sayo Olatunde, shared this information at the OPSC Stakeholders Meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.

He explained that the programme was launched as a result of the mass surrender of Boko Haram and Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) members, which was facilitated by well-coordinated operations from all involved stakeholders.

He noted that more than 120,000 insurgents and their families have surrendered since the programme began, with the 789 ex-combatants expected to graduate later this year.

Musa further mentioned that the meeting aimed to develop strategies for the proper reintegration of the first batch of 391 participants into their respective states.

The CDS highlighted that the meeting would serve as an essential platform to evaluate the collective efforts surrounding the de-radicalisation programme, assess progress, and strategize for future challenges.

”I must state that your relentless efforts and commitment to ensuring national security are highly appreciated.

”The successes recorded so far are a testament to your resilience and commitment to duty.

”Despite the successes, we must remember that there is a lot more to be done, hence the importance of this stakeholders meeting.

”We currently have a total of 789 ex-combatants undergoing a de-radicalisation, rehabilitation, and reintegration programme under the initiative who are expected to graduate this year.

”Today’s meeting will therefore centre on coming up with modalities to ensure the proper reintegration of the first of two batches consisting of 391 clients into their states,” he said.

Musa called on state governments involved to provide additional support to make the reintegration process smooth, and expressed optimism that local and traditional authorities would work together to ensure proper tracking and monitoring of the ex-combatants’ reintegration progress.

”I must emphasise that all stakeholders must be actively involved in this reintegration process to foster resilience.

”Do not also forget that the importance of this meeting is ensuring lasting peace and security in our country,” he added.

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