Federal Government Rewards 390 Ex-Boko Haram Fighters with Cash, Food, and Equipment After ‘Rehabilitation’

In a highly debated move, the Federal Government has graduated 390 former Boko Haram insurgents from its De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (DRR) program in Gombe State. The ceremony took place at the Malam Sidi camp in Kwami Local Government Area on Thursday, April 17, 2025.

General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, described the initiative as a strategic step to reintegrate the former extremists into civil life and prevent a return to violent activities. According to camp officials, the individuals publicly renounced their ties to Boko Haram, confessed their previous involvement, and pledged loyalty to the Nigerian state.

Zubaida Umar, Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), reaffirmed the government’s dedication to combating insecurity through both military force and non-violent measures. Represented by Air Commodore Abang Oyong, Umar applauded President Bola Tinubu’s decision to expand the DRR program to all six geopolitical zones, including the recent establishment of a new facility in Zamfara State.

In addition to undergoing vocational training, each graduate received a N50,000 cash stipend and a starter kit tailored to their chosen skill. To assist with their transition, NEMA also distributed substantial aid: 400 bags each of rice and maize, vegetable oil, tomato paste, seasoning, and salt, alongside 800 plastic plates and spoons and 400 bath towels.

The initiative has sparked intense public debate over government priorities and the moral implications of providing material support to individuals once involved in acts of terror.