DHQ Establishes new Operations in Northwest, Targets Ex-Bandits Rehabilitation

The Defence Headquarters has formally launched Operation Safe Corridor in Nigeria’s northwestern zone, with headquarters in Tsafe, Zamfara State.

The campaign began in the North-East zone, targeting Boko Haram defectors, and is currently being expanded to the North-West.

The initiative aims to reduce insecurity by establishing a structured process for rehabilitating and reintegrating repentant terrorists who willingly hand over their weapons.

During the official transfer of office premises that will serve as the operational headquarters, Governor Dauda Lawal emphasized his administration’s commitment to assisting security forces in combating crime.

Operation Safe Corridor is a specific military effort that aims to help former militants and bandits reintegrate into society.

The effort is organized around five main components: disarmament, demobilization, de-radicalization, rehabilitation, and reintegration.

The initiative was effectively executed in the North-East zone, targeting Boko Haram defectors, and is currently being expanded to the North-West to handle the ongoing security situation in states such as Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto, and Kaduna.

Speaking at the event, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, who was represented by the Chief of Training and Operations at Defence Headquarters, Major General Emeka Onumajuru, stressed the significance of the initiative in curbing terrorism and banditry through rehabilitation.

Similarly, Amb Mairo Abbas, a representative of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, urged state governments to create a centre for the families of those willing to surrender so they can be de-radicalized and rehabilitated.

Governor Lawal acknowledged the potential benefits of Operation Safe Corridor during his keynote address, but emphasized that his administration will not participate in any communication or negotiation with terrorist groups.

However, he stressed that his government is eager to receive any bandit who fully surrenders their weaponry.

The launch of Operation Safe Corridor in the Northwest is planned to supplement current military operations aimed at restoring peace and security to the region.

With the programme’s headquarters now in Zamfara State, security partners are optimistic that it would assist in reducing violence and reintegrating ex-fighters who are willing to give up criminality.