JUST IN: 129,417 Boko haram Militants, family members surrender to Soldiers
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), revealed that between July 10 and December 9, 2024, a total of 129,417 Boko Haram militants and their families surrendered to Nigerian security forces.
This announcement was made at the 18th Africa Security Watch Conference in Doha, Qatar, which was attended by representatives from Nigeria, Guinea Bissau, The Gambia, South Africa, Kenya, and Qatar.
The conference, themed “Developing Modules for People-Centric Governance Towards Enhancement of Peace and Security,” was organized by the Security Watch Africa Initiative.
General Musa’s report detailed that the 129,417 individuals included 30,426 fighters, 36,774 women, and 62,265 children. He credited the rise in surrenders to the Nigerian Armed Forces’ successful integration of both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies.
These approaches have not only stabilized communities but have also fostered an environment conducive to socio-economic development, marking significant progress toward a more peaceful society.
Emphasising the connection between citizens’ socio-economic growth and national defense, Musa highlighted the success of military efforts that have boosted oil production, reduced attacks on vulnerable communities, and enhanced stability across Nigeria.
He also pointed out that while challenges persist, the country has made significant strides since June 2023.
In addition, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (Rtd), former Chief of Naval Staff, discussed the vital role of leadership in driving positive change in security.
He stressed that compassionate leadership builds trust and inspires personnel to consider the broader impact of their actions on peace.
Major General Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, gave an update on Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, highlighting five phases of terrorism trials that resulted in 505 convictions, with a sixth phase in progress. He also noted military successes, including the recapture of Boko Haram and ISWAP-controlled territories and the neutralisation of key insurgent leaders.
Laka commended the collaboration within the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad Basin, as well as legislative reforms like the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022, which strengthens efforts to disrupt terrorist financing.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s successful deradicalization programs, particularly Operation SAFE CORRIDOR, and its community resilience initiatives, which have empowered local populations to resist extremist ideologies.
Additionally, efforts to counter terrorism financing, including the creation of a Joint Investigation Committee, were mentioned as part of Nigeria’s progress toward leaving the FATF Grey List.
