In a significant step for Nigeria’s stabilization efforts, 117 former insurgents from Borno State have successfully completed the federal government’s Disarmament, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (DRR) program.

The graduation, which took place at Mallam Sidi Camp, was announced on February 19, 2026, during a high-level stakeholder meeting convened by the Defence Headquarters. This milestone under Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC) reflects a strengthening of the coordination between federal and state authorities.

Key Developments in the DRR Framework:

 * Expansion to the North West: Following a successful pilot, a DRR facility was established in February 2025. Ongoing collaboration with Zamfara State aims to evolve this facility into a "Victim Healing and Community Reconciliation" framework.

 * Request from North Central: The Benue State Government has formally requested the establishment of a DRR camp to address local security challenges. Defence Headquarters is currently assessing proposed sites for sustainability and security standards.

 * International Support: The program continues to see involvement from global partners, including the United Kingdom (FCDO), Norway, the European Union, and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Sustaining Security Gains

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, it was noted that while military (kinetic) operations are vital for immediate stability, structured rehabilitation is the only way to ensure long-term peace and prevent a cycle of violence.

The meeting also saw participation from regional neighbors—including Chad, Cameroon, and Niger—underscoring the collective effort required to manage the insurgency across the Lake Chad Basin.