By Trendsetter Tribune 
The Nigerian military has reaffirmed its policy of rehabilitating members of the Boko Haram insurgent group who surrender, emphasizing that despite their involvement in terrorism, they remain Nigerian citizens entitled to reintegration opportunities under the right circumstances.
- “Operation Safe Corridor”: This long-standing initiative, established in 2016, provides a pathway for insurgents who voluntarily abandon violence to undergo de-radicalization, rehabilitation, and reintegration (DRR) into society.
- Military Justification: Defense officials argue that rehabilitation is necessary to reduce the fighting capacity of the group by incentivizing defections and preventing a purely military solution to a complex conflict.
- Public Outcry and Review: The policy remains highly controversial, with many Nigerians and local communities in the Northeast expressing outrage at the reintegration of individuals responsible for mass killings, abductions, and rapes.
- Recent Developments: Following rising public concerns and challenges, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced on February 28, 2026, that it is currently reviewing the “Operation Safe Corridor” program to strengthen its vetting processes and effectiveness.
The government maintains that the program is crucial for long-term peace, but balancing reintegration with justice for victims continues to be a major hurdle.
“Boko-Haram Terrorists Are still Considered As Nigerians, Why We Should Rehabilitate Them”.~Nigeria Military Declares pic.twitter.com/izahwc2TPR
— Somto Okonkwo (@General_Somto) February 28, 2026