FG unveils new framework to reintegrate repentant terrorists, ex-fighters across states

The Federal Government has introduced a new operational framework to strengthen the reintegration of former terrorists and other individuals involved in armed violence as part of efforts to tackle insecurity through non-military approaches.

The initiative, known as the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) programme, was unveiled on Monday during a national validation workshop in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser, Major General Adamu Laka, said the framework would ensure a coordinated, transparent and effective implementation of the government’s reintegration programme.

According to him, the SOPs provide clear operational guidelines for agencies responsible for implementing the programme, strengthen accountability and improve collaboration among security and civilian institutions.

Laka explained that the procedures were developed after extensive stakeholder consultations and were tailored to Nigeria’s security realities while drawing from international best practices.

He said the framework clearly defines the responsibilities of participating institutions, enhances inter-agency coordination and establishes uniform standards for implementing reintegration programmes nationwide.

The NCTC coordinator stressed that respect for human rights and the rule of law remains central to the initiative.

“While kinetic operations remain indispensable in degrading terrorist and criminal networks, lasting peace can only be achieved when complemented by credible pathways that facilitate the transition of eligible individuals away from violence and support their safe reintegration into society,” he said.

Laka disclosed that consultations across the six geopolitical zones revealed broad support for a nationally coordinated reintegration framework that reflects local realities and enjoys community ownership.

He noted that participants identified terrorism, violent extremism, banditry, communal clashes, farmer-herder conflicts, organised crime and separatist violence as key security threats requiring both military and non-military responses.

Also speaking, the Director of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism at the NCTC, Ambassador Abimbola Wońosikou, said the SOPs would provide a unified national approach to rehabilitation and reintegration programmes already being implemented in different parts of the country.

She explained that the framework would improve consistency, coordination and effectiveness of interventions across Nigeria.

Representing the United Nations Department of Peace Operations’ DDR Section, Mario Nascimento commended Nigeria for adopting a reintegration strategy that focuses not only on former combatants but also on rebuilding conflict-affected communities.

He emphasised that sustainable reintegration depends on the active involvement of local communities, civil society organisations, government institutions and the private sector.

The newly validated framework is expected to guide implementation by federal agencies and pilot states, including Kaduna, Katsina and Zamfara, as the government expands efforts to reduce the likelihood of former combatants returning to violence.

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